Health Bran Squares
Healthy bran squares are nutritious, fiber-rich bars with nuts, dates, and a hint of lemon, perfect for energizing snacks suitable for children and active lifestyles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bran flakes, rolled oats, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add chopped nuts, chopped dates, and grated lemon rind to the mixture.
- Stir in beaten eggs, honey, and yogurt, mixing well until combined.
- Blend in oil until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 13 x 9-inch baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 45 minutes until golden and set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into 24 bars to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using toasted nuts or experimenting with different types such as walnuts or pecans. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the honey slightly or add a splash of vanilla extract. You can also substitute the yogurt with applesauce for a lighter version. These Health Bran Squares are versatile and can accommodate various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These squares make a great breakfast or snack on their own, but they can also be paired with fresh fruit or yogurt. For a delightful brunch spread, serve alongside a slice of the Best Chocolate Rum Cake Ever or Tropical Banana Cake. They are perfect for meal prep and can easily be packed for lunch or a post-workout snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Health Bran Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold for a nutritious snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Health Bran Squares contains roughly 442 calories, with 5g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 use different dried fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute the dates with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution throughout the bars.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and ensuring that your bran flakes are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these delicious Health Bran Squares without any gluten concerns.
How can I make these squares more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding seeds like chia or flaxseed to the mixture. You can also incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini for added fiber and moisture. These additions will make the Health Bran Squares even more wholesome and satisfying.
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).