Are you looking for delicious and healthy snacks or quick breakfast options that are also gluten-free? Look no further! These gluten-free bars are incredibly versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for busy lifestyles. Whether you're following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to processed snacks, this recipe is for you. Get ready to discover the joy of homemade, healthy, and unbelievably tasty gluten-free bars!
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a base; feel free to adjust it to your liking!
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free rolled oats (certified gluten-free)
- ½ cup almond butter (or other nut butter)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruit)
- ¼ cup chocolate chips (dairy-free options available)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to help lift out the finished bars.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, chia seeds, and salt.
Step 3: Mix in wet ingredients. Add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
Step 4: Add your mix-ins. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake the bars. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan and press it down firmly and evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bars are set.
Step 6: Cool and cut. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Once cooled, cut into squares.
Tips for Success:
- Certified Gluten-Free Oats: Always use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
- Nut Butter Options: Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be substituted for almond butter.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Use your preferred sweetener, such as agave nectar or dates.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Consider adding nuts, seeds, spices, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars: Replace almond butter with peanut butter and add more chocolate chips.
- Fruity & Nutty Bars: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts and increase the amount of dried fruit.
- Spiced Pumpkin Bars: Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and ½ cup pumpkin puree during step 3.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients. Expect roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-6 grams
- Fiber: 2-4 grams
These gluten-free bars are a fantastic healthy snack or breakfast option, perfect for meal prepping and taking on the go. Enjoy the convenience and delicious taste of these homemade gluten-free treats! They are a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are surprisingly quick to make – ideal for busy weeknights. These best recipes are a testament to the power of homemade cooking and delicious dishes.