Quaker Fruit And Oat Bars
Chewy, fruit-filled oat bars with a buttery crust, perfect for a quick snack or dessert, appealing to both kids and adults seeking wholesome, flavorful treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, chopped nuts, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Add melted margarine and mix until crumbly.
- Reserve 2/3 cup of oats and press the remaining mixture evenly into a 7 x 11-inch dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread preserves evenly over the baked layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining oats on top of the preserves.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. When mixing the ingredients, ensure the margarine is not too hot to prevent clumping. For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a great breakfast on the go or a delightful afternoon snack. Pair them with a cup of yogurt or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal. They also go well with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside the Pineapple And Cherry Salad(Good And Simple) at brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last up to two weeks. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quaker Fruit And Oat Bars contains roughly 291 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of preserves?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any fruit preserves you love, such as raspberry, strawberry, or even a citrus marmalade. Each variation will give the bars a unique flavor profile, making them versatile for different tastes and occasions.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Additionally, ensure that the preserves are free from gelatin or animal products. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat without compromising your dietary preferences.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free fruit and oat bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free, as regular oats may be contaminated with gluten. This adaptation allows everyone to enjoy these tasty bars without worry.
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).