Description
These Cozy Apricot Chia Bars are a delicious, wholesome snack perfect for any time of day. Packed with dried apricots, chia seeds, and oats sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, these bars offer a perfect balance of chewy texture and subtle sweetness. Baked to golden perfection, they make a nutritious and satisfying treat for breakfast, snacks, or on-the-go energy boosts.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes removing the bars easier.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the dried apricots, chia seeds, rolled oats, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the chewy fruit, seeds, and oats.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the honey or maple syrup, water, and vanilla extract into the dry mix. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold together.
- Spread the mixture: Transfer and evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press down firmly to compact the mixture for better bar texture.
- Bake the bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bars are firm to the touch and golden on top.
- Cool and cut: Allow the baked mixture to cool completely in the dish to firm up further before lifting it out and cutting into 16 bars.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Feel free to add nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
- These bars are naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
