Healthy Date Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These healthy date oatmeal bars are my go-to when I’m craving something sweet but want to keep things wholesome. They’re a perfect mix of gooey date paste and hearty oats, with a touch of cinnamon and peanut butter to make your taste buds sing.
I love how simple they are to whip up, and they’re great for breakfast, snacks, or even a cozy dessert. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking a square straight from the fridge, these bars always hit the spot.
Why Will You Love this Recipe?
- Perfect Balance of Sweet and Nutty: The sticky-sweet date paste pairs so well with the nutty oats and peanut butter. It’s like a hug in every bite.
- Super Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker to nail this recipe. Just mix, layer, and bake—no fuss!
- Healthy but Indulgent: These bars are naturally sweetened and packed with fiber, but they still feel like a treat. They’re great for satisfying cravings without the guilt.
Recipe Variations
- Switch Up the Nut Butter: Try almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor. Each one brings its own unique vibe to the bars.
- Add Some Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture for extra texture. It gives the bars a delightful bite.
- Spice It Up: Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg. These warm spices make the bars even cozier, especially in fall.
Tools You’ll Need
- Loaf Pan and Parchment Paper: A standard 9×5 loaf pan works perfectly, and parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. It also helps lift the bars out easily.
- Small Saucepan: You’ll need this to cook the dates into a smooth paste. A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent sticking.
- Mixing Bowls and Wooden Spoon: Use these for combining the oat mixture and mashing the dates. Simple tools, big results!
FAQ
Can I Freeze These Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze beautifully! Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
How Do I Store Them?
Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They stay fresh and hold their shape best when chilled.
How Long Do They Last?
In the fridge, they’re good for about 7 days, but they rarely last that long in my house! If frozen, they’ll keep for 3 months.
What Should I Serve with Them?
These bars are great on their own, but I love pairing them with a cup of coffee or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast. They also make a great dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Are They Suitable for Specific Diets?
These bars are naturally vegan and can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. They’re not keto or paleo due to the oats and dates, but they’re a wholesome option for most diets.
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Dates?
Dates are key for the sticky texture, but you could try blending dried figs or apricots with water for a similar paste. The flavor will change slightly, but it’s a fun twist!
Can I Make Them Without Coconut Oil?
Absolutely, you can swap coconut oil for more peanut butter or another neutral oil like avocado oil. Just keep the total fat content the same for the right texture.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Healthy Chocolate Chickpea Truffles
- Easy Healthy Chocolate Coconut Bites
- Healthy Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
- Gluten-Free Apple Cake
- Healthy Oat Flour Crepes
- Flourless Oatmeal Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
- High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Oats
- Blueberry Coconut Bliss Balls
Healthy Date Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Date Paste:
- 2 cups pitted dates about 250 g
- ¼ cup water
- Pinch of salt
Oat Base:
- 1 cup oat flour about 100 g, made from ground rolled oats
- 1 cup rolled oats about 90 g
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup peanut butter about 50 g
- ¼ cup coconut oil melted (about 50 g)
Instructions
- Make the Date Paste: In a small saucepan, cook dates with water and a pinch of salt over low heat for a few minutes, mashing with a wooden spoon until a smooth paste forms.
- Mix the Oat Base: In a large bowl, combine oat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add peanut butter and melted coconut oil, then mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper. Press ⅔ of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom to form a base.
- Add the Date Layer: Spread the date paste evenly over the oat base.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ of the oat mixture over the date paste, pressing lightly.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool in the pan, then chill in the fridge for a few hours to set. This prevents crumbling.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into 12 squares and enjoy!
