Oatmeal Bars
These Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat packed with wholesome rolled oats, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts. The combination of brown sugar and milk creates a rich flavor, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. Ideal for families and anyone looking for a satisfying, homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the sifted mixture alternately with milk to the creamed mixture.
- Add oats, raisins, and nuts.
- Mix well.
- Spread in a greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350° for 45 minutes.
- Cool; cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you want to reduce sugar, you can use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for variation. Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal bars make a great breakfast on the go or a nutritious snack. They pair well with a cup of yogurt or a side of fresh fruit for a more balanced meal. Consider serving them alongside a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, or even with a dollop of Potato Salad Dressing for an unexpected twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Bars contains roughly 317 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg 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 use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can substitute quick oats for rolled oats, but the texture of the bars may be slightly different. Quick oats absorb more liquid and may result in a softer bar. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats.
What can I use instead of nuts due to allergies?
If you're looking for nut-free alternatives, consider using pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. You can also omit the nuts entirely or substitute them with additional oats or a mixture of seeds to maintain the texture and nutritional content.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
To check if the oatmeal bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, they are ready. Keep in mind that the bars will continue to set as they cool.
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).