Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
Introduction
Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are a delicious and healthy snack. They are full of oats, nuts, and a touch of sweetness. These bars are perfect for a quick pick-me-up during the day or a tasty treat after workouts. They are easy to make and really satisfying!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars is a great way to enjoy a healthy snack. They have good ingredients that keep you full and happy. You can customize them with different nuts and dried fruits to suit your taste. Plus, they are much healthier than store-bought snacks!
How to Make Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional, such as raisins or cranberries)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, chopped mixed nuts, dried fruit (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly to create an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out the bars using the parchment paper.
- Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
How to Serve Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
You can serve these bars as a snack anytime you feel hungry. They are great on their own or can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a good addition to lunchboxes!
How to Store Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
To store your Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Tips to Make Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
- Make sure to press the mixture down firmly in the pan to hold the bars together.
- Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to find your favorite combo.
- If you like a sweeter bar, add a bit more honey or maple syrup.
Variation
You can make these bars vegan by using maple syrup as your sweetener and ensuring your nut butter is free from any added ingredients. For a chocolaty twist, add some dark chocolate chips to the mixture!
FAQs
1. Can I use different nut butters? Yes! You can use any nut butter you like, such as peanut butter or cashew butter.
2. Are these bars gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free rolled oats, these bars can be gluten-free.
3. How can I make these bars healthier? You can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup in the recipe and add more nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.