Craving a taste of sunshine? These Tropical Mango Macadamia Healthy Bars are vibrant, chewy, and packed with feel-good ingredients, making them the perfect snack or healthy treat you’ll love to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Mangoes: Fresh or frozen (thawed) work best.
- Macadamia Nuts: Unsalted is preferred. You can substitute with cashews or almonds for a different flavor.
- Rolled Oats: Essential for texture. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but may result in a softer bar.
- Coconut Oil: Or unsalted butter.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Shredded Coconut: Sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups diced ripe mango (about 2 medium mangoes)
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 12 Healthy Bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 220 kcal
- Tools needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This makes lifting your Healthy Bars simple.
2. Make the Crust Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, shredded coconut, brown sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter or coconut oil and mix until well combined and crumbly.
3. Press the Crust
Press the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a firm, compact layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Mango Filling
While the crust bakes, combine the diced mango, chopped macadamia nuts, shredded coconut, maple syrup, lime juice, and cornstarch in another bowl. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients.
5. Assemble and Bake
Once the crust is partially baked, carefully spread the mango filling evenly over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and lightly browned. The mango will be tender and the nuts toasted.
6. Cool and Cut
Let the Healthy Bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This allows them to set properly. Once cool, lift the parchment paper to remove the bars from the pan and cut them into 12 squares.
Variation Ideas:
- Tropical Citrus Boost: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling for extra brightness.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit macadamia nuts and add an extra 1/4 cup of shredded coconut or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon in the filling can add warmth.
- Protein Punch: Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds to the crust for added nutrients.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Tropical Mango Macadamia Healthy Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They are best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use frozen mango?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before dicing for the filling.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, these bars can be made gluten-free.
Q: How do I know when the mango filling is cooked through?
A: The mango will be soft, and the filling will appear bubbly around the edges.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They are a great make-ahead snack and store well.
Q: Why are my bars crumbly?
A: Ensure you press the crust firmly into the pan and let the bars cool completely before cutting.
Q: What if I don’t have macadamia nuts?
A: You can substitute with other nuts like cashews, almonds, or even pecans.