This week we made some super oat bars for our little man which were absolutely delicious (and which we couldn’t help sharing with him!).
As I watched him enthusiastically tuck into them again this morning, I thought it might be a nice idea to share this recipe with you today!
These oat bars are very easy and very quick to prepare – so do give them a try, even if you don’t particularly rate your baking skills!
They have an interesting texture – slightly crunchy on top and soft and squidgy inside – making them most suitable as a finger food for babies from around 12 months of age upwards, who are biting and chewing well.
To Make Delicious Oat Bars for Baby You Will Need…
6 oz (1 1/2 cups) rolled oats*
6 oz (approx 3/4 cup) raisins or dried cranberries (or substitute with another dried fruit your baby enjoys)
2 tbsp wheat germ (a nutritious addition, but not essential)
1 tsp cinnamon
10 fl oz (1 1/4 cup) milk (I used whole milk, but you can use reduced fat milk for older children and adults)
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
*If you use quick cooking oats in this recipe, you will need less milk (probably just under 8 fl oz / 1 cup) and a shorter cooking time (30 to 40 mins or so).
Preheat the oven to 350 deg F (180 deg C).
Put the oats, wheat germ, dried fruit and cinnamon into a bowl and mix thoroughly.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk with the beaten egg and vanilla.
Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until thoroughly combined.
Grease a small baking tin, pour in the mixture and flatten on top.
Bake for 40 to 50 mins until firm.
Cut into bars (or whatever shape you like) whilst still warm – and they’re particularly tasty served warm, too.
NOTES: This recipe is sweetened by the dried fruit, but if you feel it’s not sweet enough, then you could try adding a mashed banana to the mixture.
If you want to have some of the bars yourself, then you might like to separate the mixture into two portions and add some chopped nuts to your share!
These bars freeze very well for up to one month, so why not make a nice big batch and you’ll know you always have a tasty and nutritious snack on hand for your baby and other family members!
rachel
Friday 24th of January 2014
Could you describe or post a picture of a 'small baking tin'? Im having a hard time picturing it and I'm new at cooking/baking. Thanks!
Lena
Monday 16th of January 2012
My daughter is allergic to milk. Can I use soy milk instead or there is a better substitute? Thanks.
Christine
Monday 16th of January 2012
I can't see any reason at all why soy milk wouldn't work perfectly :)
Claire
Friday 13th of January 2012
Hi, could you add more wheat germ if you wanted or would it mean cutting back on the oats and also when they have been frozen,can I get one out and defrost it in the microwave and eat it as it is or would it have to be re heated.thanks.
Christine
Sunday 15th of January 2012
Yes, you could add a little more wheat germ - if the difference was significant you would likely need to cut back on the oats - you'd need to experiment a little! No, the bars would not have to be reheated once thawed :)
Candice
Saturday 19th of November 2011
Absolutely great recipe. My son (and husband) loves these. I make a few batches at a time and freeze them so we always have a great snack on hand. Thanks!
Christine
Saturday 19th of November 2011
You're very welcome - I'm delighted they're so popular with your family :)
Susana
Friday 9th of September 2011
Loved the recipe, they are delicious without been so sweet. Even though I feel I didnt get the crunchy top texture, maybe I neede more time in the oven ?? Thanks