Healthier Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Breakfast Bars A from www.asavoryfeast.com
Introduction
Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Cereal or toast can get boring after a while. Why not switch things up with a homemade breakfast bar? This recipe is a great way to start your day with a healthy and delicious meal. It's easy to make and perfect for those busy mornings when you don't have time to sit down and eat.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make the breakfast bars:
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup chopped dates
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped pecans, chopped dates, raisins, shredded coconut, and salt. 3. In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, peanut butter, and unsweetened applesauce. 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well combined. 5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips. 6. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. 7. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly. 8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. 9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. 10. Cut the breakfast bars into 12 equal pieces. 11. Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
Each breakfast bar contains approximately:
Calories: 267
Protein: 7 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Sugar: 21 grams
Why Choose Homemade Breakfast Bars?
When you're in a rush, it can be tempting to grab a store-bought granola bar or breakfast bar. However, many of these options are loaded with sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. By making your own breakfast bars, you have control over what goes into them. This recipe uses natural sweeteners like honey and dates and includes wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit. Plus, making your own breakfast bars can save you money in the long run. Buying pre-packaged bars can be expensive, especially if you're buying them regularly. With this recipe, you can make a batch of 12 bars for a fraction of the cost of buying them from the store.
Benefits of Oats
One of the main ingredients in these breakfast bars is rolled oats. Oats are a great source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. They also contain antioxidants and have been linked to lower cholesterol levels. Oats are also a good source of protein, with around 5 grams of protein per half cup. This makes them a great addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Plus, oats are naturally gluten-free, so they're a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Benefits of Peanut Butter
Another key ingredient in these breakfast bars is peanut butter. Peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. It's also a good source of protein, with around 8 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons. Peanut butter is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. Just be sure to choose a peanut butter that doesn't have added sugars or other unhealthy ingredients.
Conclusion
These homemade breakfast bars are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. They're easy to make and can be customized to your liking. You can add different nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips to make them your own. Plus, they're a great way to save money on pre-packaged breakfast bars. Give this recipe a try and see how it can change up your morning routine.
