Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy snack without preservatives or artificial ingredients. These bars are not only delicious but also filled with the goodness of whole grains and fresh fruits.
With this recipe, you can customize the sweetness and add extra flavors by incorporating your favorite ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or even a post-workout treat.
Equipment Needed for Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
To make Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (9×9 inch recommended)
- Parchment paper (optional for easier clean-up)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Oven mitts
What You Need to Make Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
To create delicious Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups whole grain flour
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
How to Cook Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent the bars from sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole grain flour, oat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well so that everything is evenly distributed.
In another bowl, stir together the unsweetened applesauce, honey or maple syrup, and melted coconut oil until they are well combined. Once mixed, pour this wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture is just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Next, take about half of the dough and press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will serve as the base of your bars, so make sure to spread it evenly.
Now it’s time to prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped strawberries and pitted, chopped dates. Mix these sweet ingredients well, then spread the filling on top of the dough layer in the baking dish.
After this, crumble the remaining dough over the strawberry and date filling. Make sure to cover it evenly, as this will serve as the topping for your bars.
Finally, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges turn golden brown and a pleasant aroma fills your home.
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely. When cool, slice the baked mixture into bars of your preferred size.
How to Make Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
Making Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars is a simple process that involves mixing dry and wet ingredients and layering them in a baking dish. Begin by preparing all your ingredients.
Preheat the oven and grease the baking dish first — this prepares everything for baking right away. Gather your dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ones in another before combining them.
It’s crucial to mix both bases just enough to incorporate everything and avoid overmixing, which could lead to denser bars. The fruit filling adds a wonderful burst of flavor and sweetness, making these bars truly special.
In the final steps, layering is key. Start with the base, add the filling, and finish off with the topping. Baking is straightforward; just keep an eye on the time to ensure perfect golden edges.
How to Serve Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
Serving Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars is uncomplicated and versatile. You can cut them into squares or rectangles and serve them on a plate. They look great topped with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacks, making them ideal for lunchboxes or quick breakfasts. They can also be accompanied by a glass of milk or a yogurt dip for a satisfying treat.
Feel free to dust the bars with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance if you are serving them for a gathering. The colors and textures are sure to impress everyone.
What to Serve with Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
These nutritious bars pair wonderfully with various beverages and sides. For a balanced breakfast or snack, consider serving them with:
- A glass of cold almond milk
- A hot cup of herbal tea
- Greek yogurt, either plain or flavored
- Sliced fruits like bananas or apples
Adding a side of nuts or a sprinkle of granola can also enhance the nutrition and crunch factor. It makes for an enjoyable, wholesome snacking experience.
How to Store Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
To keep your Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can remain at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to one week.
If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
To ensure your Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use ripe strawberries for better flavor and sweetness.
- Adjust the sweetness if you prefer a less sweet bar by reducing the honey or maple syrup.
- Experiment with other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries if strawberries are not available.
- Ensure your coconut oil is fully melted but not hot when mixing it with other ingredients to prevent cooking the applesauce.
These tips can make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
Variations
Feel free to customize your Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars by incorporating different flavors or ingredients. Some great variations include:
- Swapping strawberries for other seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries.
- Adding nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
- Using peanut butter or almond butter in place of coconut oil for a nutty flavor.
- Mixing in some dark chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.
Best Time to Make Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars
Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars are perfect for any time of the year, but they are particularly fabulous in late spring and summer when strawberries are in season. This is when they are at their freshest and sweetest.
Additionally, these bars are great to prepare on weekends. Make a batch to enjoy throughout the week, making snack time effortless.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars, keep an eye out for these common mistakes to ensure success:
- Not greasing the baking dish adequately, which can lead to sticking.
- Overmixing the dough, which can make the bars dense and less enjoyable.
- Skipping the cooling time before slicing them, which can make them crumble.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately, leading to uneven textures.
Avoiding these pitfalls will help you create the best bars possible!
Nutritional Notes
Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars pack a nutritious punch. Whole grains provide fiber and energy, while fruits contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup keeps refined sugars low.
Coconut oil adds healthy fats, and oats offer heart-healthy benefits. These bars not only fulfill hunger but also support a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the whole grain flour with regular flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole grain flour with regular all-purpose flour, but the nutritional value will change. Whole grain flour provides more fiber and nutrients.
2. What can I use instead of coconut oil?
You can use unsalted butter, vegetable oil, or any neutral oil in place of coconut oil.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Conclusion
Making your own Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars is a rewarding and enjoyable cooking experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delicious, wholesome snacks that everyone will love.
They are versatile and can be tailored to your tastes, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing your snack is made from scratch and filled with nutritious ingredients. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy making your very own batch of Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars!
