These carrot cake oatmeal bars are a delightful blend of hearty oats, sweet carrots, and warm spices, creating a nutritious and satisfying snack or breakfast treat. They capture the essence of carrot cake in a convenient bar form, offering a perfect balance of flavor and wholesome ingredients. Ideal for on-the-go snacking, a quick breakfast, or a healthy dessert, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• • This includes grating the carrots, mixing the wet and dry ingredients, and preparing the baking pan.

Cook Time: 30 minutes

• This is the baking time for the oatmeal bars.

Total Time: 50 minutes

• This includes all preparation and cooking time.

Ingredients:

• • 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)

• • 2 cups grated carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

• • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted or unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs or 2 flax eggs (for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup chia seeds or flax seeds (optional)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

      • • Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
        • Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

   2. Combine Wet Ingredients:

      • • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup or honey, melted coconut oil or butter, eggs or flax eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

   3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

      • • In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to blend.

   4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

      • • Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

   5. Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients:

      • • Fold in the grated carrots, raisins or dried cranberries, chopped walnuts or pecans, and chia seeds or flax seeds (if using).

   6. Bake the Bars:

      • • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
      • Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   7. Cool and Cut:

      • Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or bars.
      • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut them into desired sizes.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings):

• • Calories: 220-280
  • Protein: 5-7g

• • Fat: 10-14g
  • Carbohydrates: 30-38g
  • Fiber: 5-7g

• Sugar: 12-18g

The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:

Oatmeal bars have long been a staple in healthy snacking, offering a convenient and nutritious option for those on the go. The addition of carrots and spices transforms these bars into a delightful treat reminiscent of carrot cake, a beloved dessert with roots in medieval Europe. Carrot cake itself gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century, becoming a classic dessert for celebrations and gatherings. The combination of sweet carrots, warm spices, and a moist texture has made it a favorite among many. The adaptation of these flavors into oatmeal bars allows for a healthier, grab-and-go version of this classic dessert. The bars provide a balance of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Their versatility and ease of preparation have contributed to their widespread appeal, making them a staple in many households seeking a wholesome and delicious snack or breakfast option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Convenient and Portable: Perfect for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, or a quick breakfast.
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from oats, carrots, and nuts.

• • Delicious Flavor: Captures the essence of carrot cake with warm spices and sweet carrots.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable with various additions like dried fruits, nuts, and seeds.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a breeze to prepare.

Health Benefits of:

• • Fiber-Rich: Oats and carrots provide ample fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
  • Vitamin A: Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.

• • Antioxidants: Carrots, spices, and nuts offer antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
  • Healthy Fats: Nuts and coconut oil provide healthy fats that support heart health.
  • Sustained Energy: Oats provide sustained energy, keeping you full and satisfied.

Serving Suggestions of:

• • Breakfast On-the-Go: Grab a bar for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
  • Snack Time: Enjoy a bar as a mid-morning or afternoon snack.

• • Lunchbox Treat: Pack a bar in your lunchbox for a healthy dessert or snack.
  • Post-Workout Fuel: Refuel with a bar after a workout for sustained energy.
  • Dessert Alternative: Serve as a healthier dessert option.

Tips:

• • Grate Carrots Finely: Finely grated carrots ensure even distribution and a tender texture.
  • Use Ripe Applesauce: Ripe applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture.

• • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough bars; mix until just combined.
  • Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
  • Store Properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

Variations to Try:

• • Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the cooled bars for added richness.
  • Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.

• • Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle coconut flakes on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more intense spice flavor.
  • Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.

Conclusion:

These carrot cake oatmeal bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their simple preparation and customizable ingredients, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• • Can I use steel-cut oats?
    • No, steel-cut oats require longer cooking and will not work well in this recipe. Use rolled oats or quick-cooking oats.
  • Can I use a different sweetener?
    • • Yes, you can use honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar as alternatives to maple syrup.
  • Can I make these bars gluten-free?
    • Yes, ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free.

• • Can I freeze these bars?
    • Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  • Can I add other fruits or nuts?
    • • Absolutely! Feel free to add dried cranberries, chopped dates, or other nuts like almonds or walnuts.
  • How do I make flax eggs?
    • Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.

• • Can I use vegetable oil instead of coconut oil or butter?
    • Yes, you can use vegetable oil, but coconut oil or butter adds a richer flavor.
  • How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
    • • Ensure you line the pan with parchment paper and leave an overhang for easy removal.
  • Can I use almond flour in this recipe?
    • While you can incorporate some almond flour, this recipe is formulated for rolled oats. Substituting all the oats for almond flour will change the texture and baking time.

• How long do these bars last?
  • They will last for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.

This recipe yields a soft and flavorful flaxseed bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. The addition of flax seeds adds a nutty flavor and nutritional boost, while the soft butter crust enhances its richness. The rising times ensure a light and airy texture.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• • This includes preparing the yeast mixture, mixing dry and wet ingredients, and kneading the dough.

Cook Time: 30 minutes

• This includes the second rise and baking time.

Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)

• This includes all preparation, rising, and cooking time.

Ingredients:

• • 500 grams sifted all-purpose flour

• • 2 tablespoons flax seeds
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 8 grams dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)

• • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
  • 350 ml warm milk (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

• • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 large egg
  • 25 ml sunflower oil (about 2 tablespoons)

• 50 grams softened butter (for brushing)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

      • In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast with 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar and half of the warm milk (about 175 ml).
      • Gently stir the mixture and let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

1. 1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

      • • In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour to ensure a light and airy texture.
        • Add the flax seeds, salt, and baking powder to the sifted flour.
      • Whisk the dry ingredients together to combine them evenly.

   2. Combine Wet Ingredients:

      • In another bowl, whisk together the remaining warm milk (about 175 ml), apple cider vinegar, egg, sunflower oil, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
      • Whisk until all the wet ingredients are well combined

1. 1. Form the Dough:

      • • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
        • Mix with a spoon or spatula until the ingredients are mostly combined.
      • Add the frothy yeast mixture to the dough.
      • Continue mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

1. 1. Knead the Dough:

      • • Lightly flour a clean surface.
        • Turn the dough out onto the floured surface.
      • Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
      • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.   

1. 1. First Rise:

      • • Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or butter.
        • Place the kneaded dough in the greased bowl.
      • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
      • Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free place and let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

1. 1. Shape the Dough:

      • • Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air.
        • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
      • • Knead it briefly to redistribute the air.
        • Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions to make individual rolls.
        • For a loaf, shape the dough into a rectangle and roll it up tightly.
      • Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   2. Second Rise:

      • Cover the shaped dough again with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
      • Let it rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place

2. 1. Preheat the Oven:

      • Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).

3. Bake the Bread:

   • • Before placing the bread in the oven, brush the top of the dough with the softened butter. This will create a soft, buttery crust.
     • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

4. Cool the Bread:

   • • Remove the bread from the oven and carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Let the bread cool before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings):

• • Calories: 200-250
  • Protein: 7-9g
  • Fat: 6-8g

• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 3-4g

The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:

Homemade bread has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Flaxseed bread, in particular, has gained popularity due to its nutritional benefits and unique flavor. The use of flax seeds adds omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, making it a healthy choice. The process of kneading and allowing the dough to rise ensures a light and airy texture, while the soft butter crust adds a touch of richness. The popularity of this recipe stems from its simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and the satisfaction of baking homemade bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • It’s a healthy and delicious homemade bread.

• • It’s easy to customize with different seeds or herbs.
  • It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own.
  • It fills the house with a wonderful aroma.

Health Benefits:

• • Flax seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans.
  • Whole grains provide essential nutrients and fiber.

• Homemade bread allows control over ingredients and avoids additives.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with butter, jam, or honey.

• • Use for sandwiches or toast.
  • Enjoy as a side with soups or salads.
  • Make French toast or bread pudding.

Tips:

• • Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
  • Knead the dough thoroughly for a smooth and elastic texture.

• • Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place.
  • Brush with butter before baking for a soft crust.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Variations to Try:

• • Add other seeds: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds can be added.
  • Use whole wheat flour: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.

• • Add herbs: Dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can be added for extra flavor.
  • Make it sweet: Add raisins or other dried fruits for a sweet bread.
  • Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for a nutty texture.

Conclusion:

This homemade flaxseed bread with soft butter crust is a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• • Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
    • Yes, active dry yeast can be used. Proof it in warm water with sugar before adding it to the dough.
  • Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
    • • Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook can be used.
  • Can I use a different type of oil?
    • Yes, olive oil or melted coconut oil can be used.

• • Can I make this bread without flax seeds?
    • Yes, the bread will still be delicious without flax seeds.
  • How do I store leftover bread?
    • • Store leftover bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature.
  • Can I freeze the bread?
    • Yes, the bread can be frozen. Slice it before freezing for easier use.

• • Can I make this bread without milk?
    • Yes, water or a milk alternative can be used.
  • How do I know when the bread is done?
    • • The top will be golden brown, and the bread will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Can I add other spices to the dough?
    • Yes, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be added.

• Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
  • Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for a basic white or whole wheat bread recipe, adding the flax seeds.