Oatmeal breakfast bars

This is my go-to breakfast when I'm on-the-go and in a hurry! Every meal is important, but many do not take the time to eat breakfast, much less a healthy one. To kick start the day, a healthy source of energy, packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and a complex source of carbohydrates is a great way to start!

This recipe is wonderful because you can make it your own! Choosing "toppings" that suit your preferences, or your kid's, is what makes this recipe very versatile and great for anyone. Not to mention, it is almost foolproof! Oatmeal bars are so easy to make, and will last the entire week if you plan it out right. I usually make a pan and cut them into small bars that I can grab one with me each morning, but you could just as easily put them in muffin liners! These reasons make this dish super budget friendly, not only because of the ingredients used, but the dish can be stretched for several days- not just one meal!

My go-to ingredients are raisins, walnuts, blueberries, bananas, pecans, cinnamon… But the possibilities are endless. I try to choose toppings that are high in fiber, a complex carbohydrate, because it keeps my blood glucose steady, thus staying fuller longer. 

Ingredients

• 2 C uncooked Oats (quick-cooking works well)

• 1/2 C packed light Brown Sugar

• 1/3 C blueberries (or raisins, cranberries, etc)

• 1 T chopped pecan or walnuts (optional)

• 1 C skim or 1% milk 

• 1 banana or 1/2 C applesauce

• 1 egg

• 2 T butter, melted
 

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. If using a baking dish, be sure to grease well, using a canola spray or canola oil lightly coating the edges. In a medium-sized bowl, combine dry ingredients, including fruit and other toppings used. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, applesauce, butter, and egg, mixing thoroughly. Add mixture to the oats and combine well. Once mixed, pour into an 8" baking dish or spoon into muffin liners 3/4 of the way full. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when tested. 

Serve warm in a bowl, drizzling milk over top or simply take one with you on those mornings when you're in a hurry!

Also, try my Three-Grain Hot Cereal!