I know that parents are always on the lookout for healthy snacks that kids love. I serve these Oat Bars at my outdoor parent-child Play Garden classes, and parents always ask for the recipe. Well, here it is! They are super simple, with healthy ingredients, and the children love them.
Healthy Oat Bars
Preheat oven to 375. In a large bowl, mix:
- 2 cups of unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/4 cup agave (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
Add spices generously, to taste. I usually use the following, ordered from most to least: cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ginger, white pepper, and salt.
Stir well, then add:
- 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
Optional add-ins: I use reduced-sugar dried cranberries (1/4 cup), and chopped pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup) if there are no nut allergies in the group.
Stir everything together, pour into a 9″ x 13″ baking dish, and cook at 375 degrees for 45 minutes, or until the edges are just turning brown.
Let them cool and cut into squares. They will have the consistency of cake.
I serve them with fresh fruit (watermelon or cantaloupe in the summer, apples in the fall) and herbal hibiscus iced tea. Enjoy!
Interested in joining my Play Garden classes in Arvada, CO? I offer spring, summer, and autumn sessions. Click Here for more info.
Warmly, ~Faith Collins