Almond Butter & Jelly Oatmeal Bars capture the perfect harmony of nutty richness and fruity sweetness, creating a wholesome snack that’s both satisfying and irresistibly delicious. Inspired by classic childhood flavors, these bars bring a grown-up twist with hearty oats and natural almond butter, making them ideal for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a guilt-free dessert.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking/Baking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield
Makes 12 generous bars, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.
Difficulty Level
Easy: Simple techniques with comforting results – ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup almond butter (preferably smooth and unsweetened)
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup mixed berry jelly or fruit preserves (choose your favorite flavor-strawberry or raspberry work beautifully)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking soda, sea salt, and optional chopped nuts, mixing to distribute evenly.
- In a seperate microwave-safe bowl, warm almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) for about 20-30 seconds until slightly softened. Stir in applesauce and vanilla extract,mixing until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry oats and stir thoroughly until every oat is coated in the luscious nutty blend.The texture should be sticky but manageable.
- Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared pan, ensuring an even, compact layer.Be careful not to press too hard or the bars may turn dense.
- Spread the jelly or fruit preserves evenly over this base layer,creating a vibrant,fruity ribbon in the middle.
- Gently crumble the remaining oat mixture over the jelly layer, pressing lightly to keep the topping intact but still crumbly and textured.
- Bake for 23-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges turn slightly crispy,filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Cool wholly in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out with the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Make It Your Own: Swap out almond butter for peanut or cashew butter to tweak the nutty notes.
- Sweetener Swaps: Use agave or brown rice syrup for vegan-amiable options.
- Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm touch.
- Jelly Variations: Try seedless jams or fruit butters for a smooth finish, or fresh mashed berries for a fresher burst.
- Storage: Keep bars airtight at room temperature up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Freeze in individual wraps for up to 3 months.
- Make Ahead Tip: These bars freeze beautifully – wrap each bar separately to avoid sticking and thaw at room temperature.
- Common Pitfall: If your bars crumble too easily, try pressing the base layer more firmly and slightly reduce baking time for a chewier texture.
Creative Serving Ideas and Storage Tips
Serve your bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chia seeds for an added nutritional boost. For a truly indulgent treat, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or warm almond butter right before serving. Pair with a hot cup of herbal tea or a chilled smoothie for a balanced snack.
When storing, use a resealable airtight container layered with parchment paper between bars to keep their texture intact. For on-the-go energy, pack bars individually in wax paper or reusable snack bags.
| Nutrient | Per Bar (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
For more wholesome, nutty delights, explore our Healthy Nutty Snacks collection or visit Healthline to learn about almond butter’s nutritional power.
Q&A
Q&A: Almond Butter & Jelly Oatmeal Bars – A Nutty, Fruity Treat
Q1: What makes Almond Butter & Jelly Oatmeal Bars so special?
A1: These bars blend the nostalgic comfort of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with the wholesome goodness of oats. The almond butter lends a rich, nutty creaminess, while the jelly bursts with sweet, fruity flavor-together creating a perfectly balanced, satisfying snack that’s both hearty and delicious.
Q2: Are these bars a healthy option?
A2: Absolutely! Packed with whole oats, natural almond butter, and real fruit preserves, they provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Unlike manny store-bought snacks,these bars avoid processed sugars and artificial additives,making them a great energy boost without the guilt.
Q3: Can I customize the flavor to suit my palate?
A3: Definitely! Feel free to swap almond butter for peanut or cashew butter, or try different jelly flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even a tangy apricot. Adding nuts, seeds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also personalize your bars and keep snack time interesting.
Q4: How do I make these bars at home?
A4: The process is simple and enjoyable. Mix oats, almond butter, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt to create the base. Press half into a baking pan, spread an even layer of your favorite jelly, then top with the remaining oat mixture. Bake until golden, cool completely, and slice into bars.
Q5: What’s the best way to store these bars?
A5: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped-just thaw for a few minutes before enjoying a chewy, nutty treat anytime.
Q6: Who will love these bars?
A6: These bars are perfect for busy bees, outdoor adventurers, lunchbox packers, or anyone craving a wholesome, nostalgic snack. Their combination of hearty oats, rich almond butter, and fruity jelly makes them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Q7: Can these bars accommodate dietary restrictions?
A7: For sure! They’re naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Vegan options can be made by using maple syrup instead of honey. Plus, they’re free from refined sugars and artificial ingredients, fitting nicely into many clean-eating lifestyles.
Craving a snack that’s both cozy and crisp with a sprinkle of fruity delight? Almond Butter & Jelly Oatmeal Bars might just become your new go-to treat!
To Wrap It Up
Weather you’re packing a quick breakfast, a wholesome snack, or a post-workout pick-me-up, these Almond Butter & Jelly Oatmeal Bars strike the perfect balance of nutty richness and fruity sweetness. With every bite, you get the wholesome goodness of oats, the creamy comfort of almond butter, and the nostalgic burst of jelly-making healthful eating feel like a delightful treat. So next time you crave something energizing yet indulgent, remember: a batch of these bars is just a few simple steps away from turning your day into a little party of flavor and nutrition.
