Just Like Nature Valley's Oats 'n Honeys Bars
Try this recipe inspired by Nature Valley's Oats 'n Honeys Bars.
Try this recipe inspired by Nature Valley's Oats 'n Honeys Bars.
- Carbohydrate 13.5217833526323 g
- Cholesterol 20.3354166666667 mg
- Fat 7.92326916717652 g
- Fiber 0.525125014616656 g
- Protein 0.673048334514704 g
- Saturated Fat 4.89395916673839 g
- Serving Size 1 1 bar (26g)
- Sodium 83.7400833389391 mg
- Sugar 12.9966583380157 g
- Trans Fat 0.572163166737535 g
- Calories 125 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 F.
- Line an 9x9 inch square pyrex dish with parchment paper.
- Combine the oats, rice crispies, cornmeal, salt and baking soda in a medium size mixing bowl.
- In a glass measuring cup or microwave safe bowl mix the honey and canola (or coconut oil).
- Place in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Stir to melt the coconut butter then add the vanilla and brown sugar.
- Whisk to combine and then mix the wet with the dry ingredients.
- Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared pyrex dish that is lined with parchment paper, and press down hard.
- Place in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
- The bars will be golden on top.
- Remove the bars (if your bars seem a little loose, I like to push down again on them to make sure the bars will hold together) and let the bars cool in the pan for 10-20 minutes then remove from the pan and then cut while the bars are firm, but still somewhat soft.
- Place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Store in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic wrap.
Homemade Oats 'n Honey Bars: A Taste of Nature Valley, Made With Love
As a busy mom, finding time to bake is a luxury, but when I do, it’s all about simple, delicious treats that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe, inspired by those delightful Nature Valley Oats 'n Honey bars, is my go-to when I crave something sweet and wholesome. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s surprisingly customizable. The best part? It avoids all those artificial ingredients and preservatives you find lurking in store-bought snacks, leaving you feeling good about what you’re feeding your family (and yourself!).
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment! Swap out the canola oil for coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped nuts – pecans, walnuts, or even almonds would add a delightful crunch and boost the nutritional value. Want a bit more sweetness? A drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon never hurts. The possibilities are endless, making this a perfect recipe for those days when you want to unleash your inner baker without spending hours in the kitchen. I often make a double batch, storing half in an airtight container for a quick, healthy snack throughout the week. It's a lifesaver on busy mornings when I need a grab-and-go breakfast, or a satisfying afternoon treat to combat that dreaded 3 p.m. slump.
I love how these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and wholesome. They're not overly sugary, yet they offer a satisfying sweetness that satisfies my cravings without the guilt. The oats provide a hearty texture, and the honey adds a lovely natural sweetness that perfectly complements the other ingredients. I find myself reaching for these bars more and more often, both as a quick breakfast option and as a satisfying afternoon snack. The ease of preparation is a big plus, especially on those chaotic weekdays where time is always at a premium.
The process itself is incredibly simple. The ingredients are things you likely already have in your pantry. It involves minimal measuring and even less effort. You essentially combine dry ingredients, whisk together wet ingredients, then mix everything together. The pressing down part might be the most effort-intensive step, but even then, it takes just a few minutes. The baking process is relatively short, and the cooling time is equally quick. You'll be enjoying your homemade, Nature Valley-inspired bars in under an hour, and the satisfaction of making something so delicious from scratch is truly unmatched. It's a wonderful feeling knowing that you've created a healthy and tasty treat for your family without relying on processed foods.
Beyond the delicious taste and ease of preparation, what truly sets this recipe apart is the sense of accomplishment. There's something so rewarding about creating something delicious from scratch, knowing exactly what ingredients are going into each bite. It's a connection to simpler times, a moment of mindful cooking that brings a sense of peace and satisfaction. This recipe has become more than just a snack; it's a little slice of homemade happiness in a busy world.
Tips for Success:
- Press firmly: Pressing down firmly on the oat mixture before baking is key to ensuring that your bars hold together well. A flat-bottomed measuring cup works wonders for this.
- Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on your bars while they're baking. Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars.
- Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This will help prevent them from crumbling.
- Store properly: Store your bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
So, the next time you crave a healthy and delicious snack, ditch the store-bought bars and try this simple recipe. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a delicious treat that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Your family will thank you, and you’ll enjoy the quiet pride of making something truly special from scratch.
