Muesli bars

Ingredients

Muesli Bars

200 grams (7.05 ounces) oatmeal
80 milliliters (1/3 cup) honey or maple syrup
30 grams (1.06 ounces) protein powder
120 grams (4.23 ounces) peanut butter
1 large egg
20 grams (0.71 ounces) sweetener
50 grams (1.76 ounces) cashew nuts
20 grams (0.71 ounces) coconut crunch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

Microwave
Perfect for quickly melting your peanut butter. Make sure to use microwave-safe bowls to avoid any accidents.
Mixing Bowl
Use a large mixing bowl to make combining all the ingredients easier and mess-free.
Square Baking Dish
Choose a 9x9 inch dish and cover it with foil for easy release and minimal cleanup.
Oven
Preheat your oven to 356F (180C) for perfectly baked muesli bars.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Melt the peanut butter in the microwave in short intervals until smooth. If you are using honey, melt it as well. If you are using maple syrup, simply mix it with the melted peanut butter. Tip: Stir the peanut butter every 15-20 seconds to prevent burning.

Step 2

2. Add the egg to the mixture and beat lightly until combined.

Step 3

3. Incorporate the protein powder, oatmeal, cinnamon, and sweetener into the mixture, stirring until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4

4. Finally, stir in the chopped cashews and coconut crunch.

Step 5

5. Line a square baking dish with foil and spread the mixture evenly, pressing it down to compact it. Tip: Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to level the mixture evenly.

Step 6

6. Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C) and bake the mixture for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Tip: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 7

7. Let the baked muesli bars cool slightly before cutting them into rectangles. Tip: For cleaner cuts, allow the bars to cool completely or refrigerate them for a while before slicing.

Servings

Picture this: it's a sunny afternoon 🌞, and you're enjoying a delightful picnic with friends. What better way to end a meal than with these scrumptious **Muesli Bars**? **Serve them warm** from the oven, paired with a cup of herbal tea ☕ for a cozy and satisfying treat. For a more decadent option, drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top for an extra layer of indulgence. If you're planning to fuel your morning workout, pack these bars as a convenient pre-exercise snack. They also make a fantastic **on-the-go breakfast**; simply wrap individual bars in parchment paper, and you're set for the week! 🏃‍♂️🍫 You can also crumble them over Greek yogurt 🥣 and fresh berries for a nutritious and flavorful parfait.

Variations

Why should anyone miss out on these delightful bars? Here are some **gluten-free and vegan variations**: **Gluten-Free** 🌾: Substitute the oatmeal with certified gluten-free oats. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the protein powder, are certified gluten-free. **Vegan** 🌱: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let it sit for a few minutes). Use maple syrup and vegan protein powder. Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter if desired. These variations ensure everyone can enjoy these mouth-watering bars regardless of dietary preferences! 🌟

Faq

Why did my muesli bars turn out too dry?
This could be due to overbaking or adding too much protein powder. Ensure your mixture looks moist before baking.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Absolutely! Quick oats will result in a slightly different texture but still delicious.
Can I freeze these muesli bars?
Yes, wrap each bar in parchment paper and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
How can I make my bars more chewy?
Try adding a bit more honey or maple syrup to your mixture to retain more moisture.
What other mix-ins can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or seeds for different flavors and textures.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you use a bigger baking dish or bake in batches to ensure even cooking.