How to Make Sweet Fig and Walnut Oat Bars: A Simple Recipe
Are you tired of the same old snack options? Looking for something naturally sweet, full of texture, and utterly delicious? Look no further! Sweet Fig and Walnut Oat Bars are here to save your snack time. These bars are not just a treat to your taste buds but also packed with nutrients, making them the perfect go-to snack. The combination of juicy figs, crunchy walnuts, and hearty oats will leave you wanting more. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these delightful bars in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried figs, stems removed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Preparation: Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is hot enough when your bars are ready to go in. Next, take an 8-inch square baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This little step makes removing the bars and cleaning up afterward a breeze.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients will form the base of your bars, providing a lovely texture and a nutty flavor balanced with a hint of sweetness from the cinnamon.
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Prepare the Fig Mixture: Take your cup of dried figs (make sure the stems are removed to avoid any unpleasant bites) and chop them roughly. Then, put them in a food processor along with 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend them until you achieve a smooth, sticky mixture. The fig mixture will act as a natural sweetener and binder for your bars.
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Combine: It’s time to bring everything together. Pour the fig mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir everything until well combined. You’re looking for a mixture where all the dry ingredients are coated and start sticking together, thanks to the fig mixture.
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Press and Bake: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly into an even layer. Using the back of a spoon or your hands (you might want to wet them slightly to prevent sticking), make sure the mixture is tightly packed and smooth on top. This compacting is crucial as it helps the bars hold together after baking.
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Bake: Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist, but patience is key here. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the dish. This cooling period allows the bars to set and firm up, making them easier to cut.
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Cut and Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the dish using the edges of the parchment paper and transfer them to a cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut the large square into smaller bars or squares, depending on your preference. And that’s it! Your Sweet Fig and Walnut Oat Bars are ready to be enjoyed.
Whether you’re packing them for a snack on the go, serving them as a healthy dessert option, or simply indulging in a mid-afternoon treat, these bars are sure to hit the spot. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars for an energy boost.
Remember, this recipe is quite adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits according to your taste and what you have on hand. Think of this recipe as a base for your creativity in the kitchen.
So the next time you’re searching for a snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious, give these Sweet Fig and Walnut Oat Bars a go. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you’ll discover just how easy and enjoyable healthy snacking can be. Happy baking!
