Jam-Filled Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Rolled oats: These are whole oats that have been steamed and flattened. They add a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the bars.

All-purpose flour: This is a versatile flour used in many baking recipes. It helps bind the ingredients together.

Coconut oil: A healthy fat that adds moisture and a subtle coconut flavor to the bars.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a rich, caramel-like flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet and aromatic touch.

Jam: The star of the recipe, providing a sweet and fruity filling. You can use any flavor you prefer.

When pressing the oat mixture into the baking dish, use a piece of parchment paper to help press it down evenly and prevent sticking. This will ensure a uniform base for your jam layer and make the bars easier to cut once they are cooled.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are also gluten-free, making them a good alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and is gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.

• melted coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat and can be used in a 1:1 ratio, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a bit sweeter than maple syrup but works well as a vegan liquid sweetener.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the bars.

• any flavor jam - Substitute with fruit compote: Fruit compote is made from fresh or frozen fruits and can be sweetened to taste, offering a fresher alternative to store-bought jam.

• Allow the jam-filled oatmeal bars to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bars soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate the bars. Again, use an airtight container and separate layers with parchment paper. They will stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.

• To freeze, first, cut the oatmeal bars into individual portions. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and maintains freshness.

• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can heat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

• If you prefer a crispier texture after freezing, reheat the bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their delightful crunch.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the jam-filled oatmeal bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the bars.

• Microwave Method: Place a jam-filled oatmeal bar on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as the jam can become extremely hot.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the jam-filled oatmeal bars on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't burn. This method is great for achieving a slightly crispy texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the jam-filled oatmeal bars in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even warming. This method can give a nice, crispy finish to the bars.

• Stovetop Method: If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can use a non-stick skillet. Heat the skillet over low heat and place the jam-filled oatmeal bars in the pan. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method can give a slightly toasted flavor to the bars.

• Oven: Used to bake the oatmeal bars at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the rolled oats, flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

• Baking dish: The container where the oat mixture and jam are layered and baked.

• Spatula: Useful for pressing the oat mixture into the baking dish and spreading the jam evenly.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the rolled oats, flour, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract precisely.

• Cooling rack: Allows the baked oatmeal bars to cool completely before cutting.

• Knife: Needed to cut the cooled oatmeal bars into individual servings.

• Grease brush: Helps to grease the baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the rolled oats, flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup ahead of time to streamline the mixing process.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

Microwave coconut oil: Melt the coconut oil in the microwave for quick and even melting.

One-bowl mixing: Combine all ingredients in one bowl to minimize dishwashing.

Quick cooling: Place the baked bars in the fridge to cool faster before cutting.