Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced, wholesome treat that combines the warm, comforting embrace of cinnamon with the sweet, delicate essence of ripe pears. These Pear and Cinnamon Oat Bars are not just a snack – they're a delightful journey of flavor that will transform your ordinary day into an extraordinary culinary experience. Vegan-friendly and incredibly simple to make, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 9 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ripe pear, mashed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup almond milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and ground cinnamon, stirring until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the oats.
- Mash the ripe pear using a fork or potato masher until it forms a smooth, slightly chunky puree. Ensure there are no large chunks of pear remaining.
- Add the mashed pear, maple syrup, and almond milk to the oat mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture becomes slightly sticky and holds together.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands to create a compact layer.
- Smooth the top of the mixture, ensuring an even surface for consistent baking.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. The cooling process helps the bars set and become more stable.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 9 equal squares using a sharp knife, ensuring clean, precise cuts.
- Allow bars to cool completely to room temperature before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose a ripe, soft pear for maximum natural sweetness and easier mashing.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well after baking.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to achieve clean, neat squares.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a handful of chopped nuts to the mixture.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfectly precise bar edges.
- If you prefer a slightly crunchier texture, you can toast the oats briefly in a dry pan before mixing.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and extend their shelf life.
- For a more indulgent version, drizzle with a light maple glaze or sprinkle with powdered cinnamon before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
