Description
These Cozy Apricot Chia Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack perfect for any time of day. Packed with nutritious ingredients like dried apricots, chia seeds, and rolled oats, sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, these bars offer a chewy texture with a hint of vanilla. Easy to prepare and bake, they make a great energy-boosting treat or on-the-go breakfast option.
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 Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the dried apricots, chia seeds, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, and salt until evenly incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the water and vanilla extract, stirring thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold together.
- Spread Mixture Evenly: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly, pressing down lightly so it packs firmly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are firm to the touch and have a golden edge.
- Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out the parchment paper and cutting into 16 bars.
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey to make the bars vegan.
- Ensure the apricots are chopped finely if you prefer smaller pieces in the bars.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon more water until it holds together well.
