Name: Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/3 cup dried cranberries; 1/3 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Hey y’all! Looking for a quick, nourishing treat that’s perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even a sweet pick-me-up? These Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are chewy, hearty, and brimming with healthy ingredients to fuel your day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or seeking a portable breakfast, these bars are about to become your go-to recipe. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Recipe

Chock-full of wholesome oats and naturally sweetened – no refined sugars!
Easy to make ahead and perfect for grabbing on the go.
Customizable with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips.
Soft, chewy texture that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Kid-friendly and great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup honey or pure maple syrup
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

How to Make Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, letting a little overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, whole wheat flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir to distribute everything evenly.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Add Mix-ins

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit, making sure they’re evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and set in the middle.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang. Slice into 10-12 bars and enjoy!

Notes for Perfect Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

For extra chewy bars, don’t overbake—take them out when the center just sets.
Mix-ins are up to you! Try adding mini chocolate chips for a kid-friendly twist. For more creative mix-in ideas, check out these oatmeal bar options.
Let bars cool fully before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Variations

Peanut Butter Lovers: Swirl in 1/4 cup natural peanut butter before baking.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips.
Vegan Option: Use flaxseed egg and coconut oil, and opt for maple syrup.

Required Equipment

8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
2 mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Knife for slicing

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Storage Instructions

Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap each bar tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for 20 seconds before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Pair with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a protein-packed breakfast.
Enjoy with a steaming mug of coffee or herbal tea.
Pack with fruit for an on-the-go snack or healthy lunchbox treat.

Pro Tips for the Best Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats, for the best chewy texture (learn more about oats here).
To avoid crumbly bars, press the mixture very firmly into the pan before baking.
For more nutrient-dense bars, add a tablespoon of chia or flax seeds (see all about their nutrition here).

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars FAQ

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?: Quick oats will work, but the bars may be softer and less chewy than with rolled oats.
What’s the best way to make these bars nut-free?: Simply replace the nuts with extra dried fruit or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
How do I make these oatmeal breakfast bars gluten-free?: Use certified gluten-free oats and substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
Total Time: 40-43 minutes

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Recipe

Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Ingredients