ARKEPIN
Healthy Oatmeal Fruit Squares, Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert
Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a guilt-free dessert, these Healthy Oatmeal Fruit Squares will leave you craving more delicious options. Discover the full recipe!
What kind of recipe is it?
Healthy Oatmeal Fruit Squares are a delicious and nutritious treat that combine the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of fresh fruits.
Ideal for breakfast or a snack, these bars are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them perfect for health-conscious individuals and families.
With their easy preparation and ability to be customized with your favorite fruits, they cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
Cooking these squares not only promotes healthy eating, but also offers a satisfying dessert option without the guilt.
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups |
| Whole wheat flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsweetened applesauce | 1 cup |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh or dried fruit | 1.5 to 2 cups (e.g., chopped apples, berries, bananas, raisins, or any preferred fruit) |
| Chopped nuts (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Feel free to adjust the types and quantities of fruits according to your preference or seasonal availability!
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Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and position the oven rack in the middle. Grease a 23×23 cm (9×9 inch) square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 240 g (2 cups) rolled oats, 130 g (1 cup) whole wheat flour, 100 g (1/2 cup) brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir the dry ingredients until evenly mixed, making sure there are no lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 240 ml (1 cup) unsweetened applesauce, 60 ml (1/4 cup) honey or maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in 225–300 g (1.5–2 cups) of your choice of fresh or dried fruit (such as chopped apples, berries, bananas, or raisins) and 75 g (1/2 cup) of chopped nuts if using.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula, smoothing the top to guarantee an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges appear golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The squares should be fragrant with a warm aroma and firm to the touch.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time allows the bars to firm up for easier cutting.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the squares into desired sizes.
- Enjoy your Healthy Oatmeal Fruit Squares or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
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Variations
- Tropical Delight: Substitute fruit with 225–300 g (1.5–2 cups) of diced pineapple and mango for a revitalizing tropical flavor.
- Nutty Protein Boost: Add 75 g (1/2 cup) of almond butter or peanut butter to the wet mixture for an extra protein kick.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use maple syrup to maintain a plant-based diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use 130 g (1 cup) gluten-free rolled oats and gluten-free flour blend to guarantee it’s suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
Tips on plating and presentation
After you’ve chosen your variation of healthy oatmeal fruit squares, it’s time to think about how to plate and present them.
I love to cut them into neat squares and arrange them on a colorful plate. You can sprinkle some nuts or coconut on top for texture.
Fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey adds a touch of elegance and makes them irresistible!
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What other dishes can I pair it with?
While healthy oatmeal fruit squares are delicious on their own, I love to pair them with a variety of dishes to create a balanced meal.
Fresh yogurt adds creaminess and protein, while a side of mixed berries boosts the nutrition. Sometimes, I’ll serve them with scrambled eggs for a savory touch.
Each combination complements the squares’ natural sweetness beautifully!
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What drinks can I pair it with?
To make my healthy oatmeal fruit squares even more enjoyable, I often look for drinks that enhance their flavors.
A warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or ginger complements the sweetness perfectly. Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a revitalizing touch, while almond milk provides a delightful creaminess.
You can’t go wrong with a classic smoothie, either, especially with berries!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Leftover Oatmeal Fruit Squares for Later Use?
Absolutely, I freeze leftover oatmeal fruit squares all the time. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. It’s super convenient for later!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness in This Recipe?
I usually adjust sweetness by adding less sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Tasting during preparation helps me find the perfect balance, so I recommend adjusting to your personal preference as you go.
Are There Any Allergy-Friendly Substitutes for the Ingredients?
I often use unsweetened applesauce instead of eggs for binding or almond flour instead of regular flour. For a nut-free option, coconut flour works great. Just experiment until you find what suits you best!
How Long Do These Squares Stay Fresh When Stored?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about a week. I usually keep mine in the fridge to extend their freshness, ensuring I always have a delicious treat on hand.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan or Gluten-Free?
I’ve made these squares vegan by substituting the eggs with flaxseed meal, and you can easily use gluten-free oats to keep them gluten-free. It’s a simple switch that doesn’t compromise the taste. Enjoy!