Cereal bars with dried fruits

Cereal Bars with Dried Fruits

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to the world of healthy delights! Today, I invite you to prepare together a recipe for cereal bars with dried fruits, a sweet treat that not only satisfies the craving for something good but is also an excellent nutritional choice. These bars are ideal as a quick snack, packed with energy and perfectly adaptable depending on the ingredients available in your pantry.

The history of cereal bars is fascinating, rooted in people's desire to create nutrient-rich, portable snacks. Over time, these bars have evolved and diversified, becoming a popular option for those looking to combine health with the pleasure of taste.

Let’s get to work!

Ingredients:

200 g rolled oats
50 g coconut (flakes)
40 g brown sugar
100 g butter
150 ml agave syrup
2 tablespoons peanut butter
70 g raisins
90 g cranberries
100 g candied melon
40 g candied pineapple
120 g sunflower seeds
70 g hazelnuts

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. The rolled oats are the base of the recipe and provide a pleasant texture, while the sunflower seeds and hazelnuts add a crunchy note. The dried fruits, such as cranberries and melon, will provide natural sweetness, and the coconut will enrich the overall flavor.

Step 2: Toasting the ingredients
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the rolled oats, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. This step is crucial as toasting will enhance the flavors and provide a crunchy texture.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup
In a small saucepan, add the butter, brown sugar, peanut butter, and agave syrup. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and easy to pour. Agave syrup is an excellent choice, having a lower glycemic index than sugar, making it friendlier for long-term energy levels.

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients
Once the butter and sugar mixture has cooled slightly, pour it into a large bowl where you have already added the rolled oats, toasted seeds, and nuts. Add the dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, melon, and pineapple), then mix well, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated with the syrup.

Step 5: Preparing the pan
Wet a piece of parchment paper, wring it out well, and place it in a 20x30 cm baking pan. This trick helps the paper stick better to the pan, preventing it from slipping during baking. If you prefer not to use this method, an alternative would be to grease the paper with a bit of butter.

Step 6: Baking
Pour the mixture into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use a spatula to press the mixture down firmly so that the bars do not crumble after baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden.

Step 7: Cooling and cutting
After removing the pan from the oven, let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This step is essential as the bars will harden as they cool. Once cooled, cut into desired portion sizes.

Serving suggestion:
These cereal bars with dried fruits are wonderful as a morning or afternoon snack, but they can also be enjoyed alongside a warm tea or aromatic coffee. If you want to make them even more special, try wrapping them in plastic wrap and bringing them to the office or park as a healthy snack.

Variations:
You can adapt this recipe according to your preferences or the ingredients available. For instance, you can add almonds or walnuts instead of hazelnuts, or experiment with different types of dried fruits. Even the rolled oats can be replaced with whole grains or quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of cereal bars with dried fruits contains about 200 calories, varying based on the ingredients used. These bars are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, providing an excellent source of energy and essential nutrients. Rolled oats contribute to digestive health, while dried fruits provide vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use honey instead of agave syrup?
Yes, but keep in mind that honey becomes toxic at temperatures above 40 degrees. Agave syrup is a safer alternative in this case.

2. Can I store the bars in the fridge?
Yes, the bars can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, but it is recommended to let them sit at room temperature for a while before consuming to regain their texture.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add dark chocolate chips, chia seeds, or any other dried fruits you prefer.

These cereal bars with dried fruits are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for your taste! Along the way, feel free to share this recipe with friends and family to inspire them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy!