Baked Oat Bars are the kind of recipe that quietly becomes a daily favorite. They’re simple, hearty, and endlessly customizable—perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or a not-too-sweet dessert. Think of them as a cross between classic oatmeal and a soft granola bar, baked into convenient slices that are easy to grab and go.
What really sets baked oat bars apart is their comfort factor. Warm spices, tender oats, and just the right amount of sweetness create a cozy texture that feels nourishing without being boring. They’re filling, budget-friendly, and ideal for families, meal prep, or anyone trying to eat a little better without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Oat Bars
- Soft, chewy, and lightly golden on top
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes
- Easy to customize with fruits, nuts, or chocolate
- Naturally satisfying and not overly sweet
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1¾ cups milk (or plant-based milk)
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples
- ⅓ cup chopped nuts or seeds
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and well blended.
4. Combine & Customize
Pour the wet mixture over the oats and stir until everything is fully coated. Fold in any add-ins you like—this is where you can get creative.
5. Bake
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
6. Cool & Slice
Let the baked oats cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing into bars. This helps them firm up and hold their shape.
Tips for Perfect Baked Oat Bars
- Use rolled oats, not instant, for best texture
- Let them cool fully for cleaner slices
- For extra softness, cover loosely while cooling
- Want crisp edges? Bake a few extra minutes
Serving & Storage
- Enjoy warm with yogurt or nut butter
- Store in the fridge up to 5 days
- Freeze individual bars for quick breakfasts
Final Note
These Baked Oat Bars prove that simple food can still be deeply satisfying. Whether you keep them plain and wholesome or load them up with chocolate and fruit, they’re a reliable, feel-good recipe you’ll come back to again and again.