Craving a wholesome treat? These Spiced Carrot Cake Oat Bars offer all the cozy flavors of carrot cake in a healthy bar you can enjoy guilt-free. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how satisfying they are as a snack or breakfast on the go.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats can work but may result in a softer bar.
- Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are essential for moisture and flavor.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey works perfectly.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create that classic carrot cake warmth.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk or dairy milk will do.
- Optional Mix-ins: Raisins, chopped walnuts, or pecans add extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier bar)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 healthy bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the shredded carrots, milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Ensure all the wet ingredients are well combined before adding them to the dry mixture.
3. Mix and Fold in Optional Add-ins
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix. If you’re using raisins or chopped walnuts, gently fold them into the batter now.
4. Bake Your Healthy Bars
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Press it down lightly with a spatula to ensure an even layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Let the Spiced Carrot Cake Oat Bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. If you’re making the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars, then slice and serve these delicious healthy bars.
Variation Ideas:
- Protein Boost: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dry ingredients.
- Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts/pecans and ensure your oats are certified nut-free if there’s an allergy concern.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Before baking, dollop small spoonfuls of softened cream cheese mixed with a little sugar and swirl it into the batter.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Spiced Carrot Cake Oat Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual bars in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in a microwave before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make these Spiced Carrot Cake Oat Bars gluten-free? Yes, use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- What if I don’t have maple syrup? You can use honey or agave nectar as a direct substitute.
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? You can, but the texture of these healthy bars will be softer and less chewy.
- How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan? Always line your pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift them out after cooling.
- Are these good for meal prep? Absolutely! These healthy bars are perfect for meal prepping snacks or quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Can I add other vegetables? While these are carrot cake oat bars, you could experiment with a small amount of finely shredded zucchini, ensuring you squeeze out any excess moisture.