Need a new snack for the kids?? For yourself?? One that is simple and healthy; but also sweet, tasty, and fun to eat??
These bars are filled with heart-healthy oats and cashews. Then, they are sweetened with maple syrup, a bit of brown sugar, and orange juice. For a healthier version, look for an all-natural jam or jelly. You can easily customize your own flavor- with almonds, peanuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, peanut butter chips, dark chocolate chips, pretzels…tons of possibilities!
Ooh- you could even make peanut butter and jelly bars! (sub milk for the orange juice) Since they are kept in the fridge, these bars become a cool treat in the summer! Plus, they are a great alternative to store-bought granola bars!
Happy snacking!
10 minutes + 1 hr for refrigeration
Gluten Free Oat & Jam Bars
Ingredients
- 2 c. old-fashioned oats
- 1 c. cashews
- 1/4 c. brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp. butter (can omit; may need a bit less liquid)
- 2 Tbsp. orange juice
- 1/2 c. jam or jelly (I used all-natural raspberry)
- Optional: Chopped white chocolate chips, pecans, cashews, pretzels, etc.
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend oats, cashews, brown sugar, maple syrup, butter, and orange juice until smooth. Next, spread into an 8x8 pan. Top with a layer of jam. Then, sprinkle with chopped nuts or white chocolate chips. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars. (you can also add the jam after the bars have been refrigerated) Store bars in the fridge.