These wholesome Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Breakfast Bars are naturally sweetened with dried apricots and raisins, making them a perfect sugar-free, flour-free option to kickstart your day. Packed with fiber from oats and nutrients from carrots and apples, they’re an easy, nutritious breakfast or snack that keeps you fueled and satisfied.
Servings & Timing
- Yield: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Bar – Approximate)
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Sugar: 9g (from dried fruit)
- Protein: 6g
(Nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients used.)
Ingredients
- 2 cups (200g) rolled oats, chopped in a blender
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk of your choice
- 1 carrot, grated
- 9 dried apricots, rinsed with hot water and chopped
- 4 tablespoons raisins, rinsed with hot water
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 eggs
How to Make Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Breakfast Bars
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. -
Prepare the Oats:
In a blender or food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they are chopped into smaller pieces, but not fully ground into flour. Set them aside in a mixing bowl. -
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. -
Add the Grated Fruits and Vegetables:
Add the grated carrot and apple to the wet mixture, along with the chopped apricots and raisins. Stir to combine. -
Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Add the chopped oats and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined. The batter will be thick. -
Transfer to the Baking Pan:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. -
Bake the Bars:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the bars are firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other dried fruits instead of apricots?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried apricots with other dried fruits like figs, dates, or raisins. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces.
Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk to make them vegan.
Q: How do I make these bars sweeter?
A: If you’d like them sweeter, you can add a small amount of stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or another natural sweetener that fits your no-sugar lifestyle.
Q: Can I make these bars with gluten-free oats?
A: Absolutely! You can use certified gluten-free oats if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Breakfast Bars are a simple, nutritious, and naturally sweet treat to start your day. With the combined goodness of oats, fruits, and veggies, they provide lasting energy without the need for added sugar or flour. Perfect for busy mornings or an on-the-go snack!
