These Oatmeal Coconut Peanut Bars are not only delicious but also highly customizable. Packed with nutritious ingredients, these bars are a perfect combination of oats, coconut, peanuts, and a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a breakfast on the go, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• • Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes

  • Servings: 8 bars

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 kcal (calories may vary based on ingredients used)

Full List of Ingredients

• • 100g (3.5 oz) rolled oats

  • 1/3 teaspoon baking powder

• • 30g (1 oz) coconut flakes

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

• • 40g (1.4 oz) peanuts, chopped

  • 50g (1.7 oz) apple, finely chopped (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)

• A pinch of sea salt (optional for a sweet-salty balance)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8×8 inch (20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal of the bars.

2. Prepare the Oats

• • Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor. Pulse a few times until they break down into a finer consistency (similar to oat flour). This step will give the bars a smoother texture.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the chopped oats, baking powder, and coconut flakes. Stir to mix them well.

4. Add Wet Ingredients

• • In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract (if using). If you’re adding chopped apple, mix it in at this stage.

  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until the batter is well combined.

5. Add Peanuts and Optional Sweetener

• Stir in the chopped peanuts. If you like your bars a little sweeter, you can add a pinch of sea salt or a little extra maple syrup. Make sure everything is well mixed.

6. Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish

• Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly spread the mixture in the pan.

7. Bake

• • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is firm. The top should be slightly crispy, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.

8. Cool and Slice

• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, remove them from the pan using the parchment paper or by gently lifting them out. Slice into squares or bars.

9. Serve and Store

• These bars can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• • Calories: 180

• • Fat: 9g

  • Protein: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

• • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugars: 10g

  • Sodium: 40mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This oatmeal bar recipe is inspired by traditional homemade granola bars, known for their versatility and health benefits. With the addition of natural sweeteners like maple syrup and healthy fats from coconut oil, these bars are a step above typical store-bought snacks. The use of oats as a base provides fiber and energy, while the coconut flakes and peanuts offer texture and flavor.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

1. 1. Packed with Nutrients: Oats are rich in fiber and protein, while coconut flakes and peanuts provide healthy fats and antioxidants.

   2. Natural Sweetness: Sweetened with maple syrup, these bars are free from refined sugars and full of natural sweetness.

1. Customizable: You can change the ingredients based on what you have available. Add dried fruits, seeds, or even chocolate chips for a variety of flavors.

2. Quick and Easy: These bars come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a perfect snack for busy days.

Health Benefits

• • Oats provide soluble fiber, which supports heart health and digestion.

• • Peanuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats, contributing to muscle repair and overall well-being.

  • Coconut flakes offer medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can help boost energy and metabolism.

  • Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with antioxidants, making it a better choice than refined sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• • With a Smoothie: Pair these bars with a fruit or green smoothie for a balanced breakfast or snack.

  • As a Pre-Workout Snack: The combination of oats and peanuts makes these bars an excellent source of energy before a workout.

  • Topped with Nut Butter: Spread a little almond butter or peanut butter on top for extra protein and healthy fats.

Cooking Tips

1. 1. Ensure Even Mixing: Make sure to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients, and stir well to ensure everything is combined evenly.

   2. Use a Sharp Knife to Slice: Once the bars are cooled, use a sharp knife to slice them into clean, neat squares or bars.

   3. Make Them Vegan: If you want to make these bars vegan, simply substitute maple syrup with agave syrup or use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg.

Variations to Try

1. 1. Add Seeds: Try adding chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds to the mixture for extra nutrients.

   2. Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.

   3. Fruit: Add dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or apricots for added sweetness and texture.

Conclusion

These Oatmeal Coconut Peanut Bars are the perfect healthy snack or breakfast option, full of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. They are easy to make, customizable, and can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Whether you’re grabbing one on your way out the door or serving them at a gathering, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your snack repertoire.