Citrus Oak Snack Bars(From Carnation Milk)
Sweet and citrusy Oak Snack Bars with oats, raisins, and a hint of lemon or orange zest, perfect for a quick, flavorful treat or energy boost.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, cream together the brown sugar, shortening, and lemon or orange zest.
- Beat in the egg or egg substitute; set aside.
- In another small bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground mace.
- Add the flour mixture and undiluted Carnation milk alternately to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture; beat well after each addition.
- Stir in 2/3 cup rolled oats, raisins, and wheat germ.
- Spread the mixture into a lightly greased 8-inch square baking pan.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons oats.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool.
- Cut into 12 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of lemon and orange zest. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter or coconut oil for a richer taste. To make these bars gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure to beat the mixture well after each addition to achieve the right texture.
Serving Suggestions
These snack bars are perfect as a quick breakfast or a healthy afternoon treat. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert, consider drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Citrus Oak Snack Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Citrus Oak Snack Bars(From Carnation Milk) contains roughly 184 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the raisins in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the substitute is chopped if necessary to maintain even distribution throughout the bars.
How can I make these bars more nutritious?
To increase the nutritional value, add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, to the batter. You can also incorporate a scoop of protein powder or flaxseed meal for added health benefits without significantly changing the flavor.
What can I do if my bars are too dry?
If your bars turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the mixture. To remedy this, consider adding a splash more of undiluted Carnation milk next time, or serve the bars with a spread of cream cheese or yogurt to add moisture when serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).