Introduction
Muesli bars are a delicious and nutritious snack, perfect for a quick energy boost during the day. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits, these bars are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste. With a delightful hint of sweetness from honey and a nutty flavor from peanut butter, these muesli bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you fueled.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
The Glue:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup natural peanut butter, smooth or crunchy
Muesli Bars:
1 1/2 cups rolled oats (not steel cut)
1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped
1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
1/2 cup sultanas
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder (or other, like pumpkin spice)
1/4 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
2 tablespoons small chocolate chips or 3 tablespoons regular dark chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: 10 bars
Enjoy your homemade muesli bars as a healthy snack option, perfect for on-the-go or a midday recharge!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin
Preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F (140°C fan-forced). Line a 20 cm / 8″ square tin with baking paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
Step 2: Bake Oats and Nuts
Spread the rolled oats, chopped almonds, and pepitas evenly on a baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After baking, transfer the mixture to a heatproof bowl and add the sultanas, cinnamon powder, and salt.
Step 3: Prepare Glue Mixture
In a heatproof jug, combine the honey and peanut butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the warm honey-peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too stiff, microwave it for an additional 20 seconds to loosen it.
Step 5: Transfer to Tin and Add Chocolate (if using)
Transfer the mixture into the prepared tin. Press down firmly to create an even layer across the base. If you’re using chocolate chips, allow the mixture to cool slightly, sprinkle the chips on top, and cover with a sheet of baking paper. Press down firmly to make sure the chips are embedded in the mixture.
Step 6: Refrigerate
Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour, or until it is firm enough to be lifted out without bending.
Step 7: Cut Bars
Once the mixture has set, lift the muesli slab from the tin using the paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it in half, then cut each half into 5 bars, resulting in a total of 10 bars. Arrange the bars on a baking tray with some space between them.
Step 8: Bake Again
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for an additional 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the surface and edges, ensuring they are not burnt.
Step 9: Cool and Store
Remove the tray from the oven and let the bars cool on the tray. They will become crunchier as they cool down. Once completely cooled, store the bars in an airtight container. If you are in a warm environment, refrigerate the bars to maintain their crunchiness for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. Similarly, any nut butter can be used instead of peanut butter if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These muesli bars can be served as a snack, breakfast option, or a quick energy boost before exercise.
Storage Tips
Make sure to keep the bars in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale. In humid conditions, refrigeration is recommended to maintain quality.
Customization Options
Feel free to add other mix-ins such as dried fruits, seeds, or even coconut flakes to suit your taste preferences.
Cook techniques
Oven Preheating
Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking. This helps in achieving an even bake and prevents sticking.
Baking Tray Preparation
Line your baking tray with baking paper to allow for easy removal of the baked goods. Ensure the paper overhangs for easy lifting.
Toasting Ingredients
Spread rolled oats, chopped almonds, and pepitas on a baking tray and toast them in the oven. This enhances their flavor and adds a crunch to your bars.
Microwaving for Ease
Microwave honey and peanut butter together to make them easier to mix. Use short intervals to avoid overheating.
Mixing Consistency
Combine all the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly. If the mixture thickens, return it to the microwave briefly to loosen it for better mixing.
Pressing Mixture
When transferring the mixture into the tin, press it down firmly to create an even layer, which ensures the bars hold together after baking.
Chilling for Firmness
Refrigerate the pressed mixture to firm it up before cutting into bars. This helps in obtaining a clean cut and sturdy bars.
Cooling After Baking
Allow the bars to cool on the tray after baking. This step is essential for achieving the desired crunchy texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How should I store the muesli bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate to maintain their crunchiness.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for different flavors.
Why do I need to toast the oats and nuts?
Toasting enhances their flavor and gives the bars a better texture.
What if my mixture is too dry to hold together?
If too dry, add a little more honey or peanut butter to help bind the ingredients together.
Conclusion
These homemade muesli bars offer a delicious and nutritious snack option, packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy and satisfaction. Perfect for on-the-go moments, they can be customized to suit your taste preferences with various mix-ins. Storing them in an airtight container ensures they stay fresh and crunchy, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or a quick treat.
Nut Butter Variations
Experiment with different nut butters such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for diverse flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.
Dried Fruit Options
Swap the sultanas for other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or figs to bring new sweetness and texture to your muesli bars.
Seed Mix-Ins
Incorporate chia seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutritional value. These seeds are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
Chocolate and Flavor Enhancements
Add cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolatey twist, or consider using vanilla extract or almond extract to elevate the flavor.
Healthy Add-ins
Incorporate protein powder, shredded coconut, or even quinoa for added texture and nutritional benefits, making your bars more filling and hearty.
Raw Version
For a raw version, skip the baking step and chill the bars in the fridge until set, maintaining maximum nutrients and freshness.
Nut-Free Alternatives
For a nut-free version, substitute with sunflower seeds and sunflower seed butter, ensuring kids and those with allergies can enjoy these tasty treats.
