Imagine biting into a deliciously wholesome treat that combines the comforting flavors of carrot cake with the nutritious goodness of oats. These Carrot Cake Oat Bars are not just a breakfast solution, but a game-changing culinary experience that will transform your morning routine. Packed with natural sweetness, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices, these bars are about to become your new obsession – a healthy indulgence that feels like a decadent dessert but nourishes your body from the inside out.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup grated carrots
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup almond butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup raisins
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, grated carrots, honey, almond butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed and the oats are fully coated.
- Add the raisins and chopped walnuts to the mixture. Gently fold them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the corners of the dish. This will help the bars hold their shape when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- After the bars have cooled, cut them into 12 equal squares or rectangles. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips
- Use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best moisture and texture. Avoid pre-shredded carrots as they can be too dry.
- For extra richness, consider toasting your walnuts before adding them to the mixture. This will enhance their nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or reduce the amount slightly.
- Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the baking dish to help the bars hold their shape and create a compact texture.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling and ensure clean, neat edges.
- For added protein, you can mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or sprinkle some chia seeds into the mixture.
- These bars are versatile – experiment with different mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries to customize your recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 246kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
