Lo-Cal Breakfast Bar
A nutritious, low-calorie breakfast bar packed with oats, applesauce, and raisins, perfect for a healthy start to your day or on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except peanut butter in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a sprayed 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Spread with peanut butter if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using quick oats instead of rolled oats. If you're looking for a natural sweetener, honey or maple syrup can be added in place of some applesauce. You can also mix in different dried fruits or nuts to suit your taste. This recipe is versatile and fits into many American recipes, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
These breakfast bars are perfect for on-the-go mornings and can be paired with a dollop of yogurt or fresh fruit for added nutrition. They also make a great snack or post-workout treat. Serve them alongside your favorite smoothie or coffee for a balanced breakfast. For a fun twist, try them with a spread of peanut butter as you would for Grilled P B & J.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cut the breakfast bars into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Breakfast Bar contains roughly 445 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk alternatives instead of dry milk and opting for unsweetened applesauce. Ensure any optional spreads like peanut butter are also vegan-friendly.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, consider substituting with chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the nutritional profile.
How can I enhance the flavor of the breakfast bars?
To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. You can also experiment with different spices or even citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
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).