Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are a delightful and hearty treat packed with a mix of nuts, oats, and a hint of sweetness that makes them perfect for a snack or dessert. The combination of crunchy nuts and chewy texture makes these bars a favorite for both kids and adults alike. They’re easy to make, loaded with protein, and have just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your cravings. These bars are great for an on-the-go breakfast, a lunchbox snack, or a tasty after-dinner treat.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add Nuts and Optional Fruit: Fold in the chopped pecans, almonds, walnuts, and dried cranberries or raisins (if using). Make sure the nuts and dried fruit are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve: Enjoy the chewy and nutty goodness of these bars as a snack or dessert!
Tips for Perfect Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid tough bars.
- Cool Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent them from crumbling.
- Use Fresh Nuts: Fresh, unsalted nuts work best in this recipe for the best flavor and crunch.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Nutty Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolaty twist.
- Coconut Nutty Bars: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor boost.
- Peanut Butter Squirrel Bars: Replace 1/4 cup of the melted butter with creamy peanut butter for a nutty flavor upgrade.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: It’s best to use old-fashioned oats for this recipe, as they provide the best chewy texture. Quick oats can make the bars a bit softer and less chewy.
Q: Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any combination of your favorite nuts, such as cashews, hazelnuts, or pistachios.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Glass of Milk: Serve these bars with a cold glass of milk for a classic and satisfying snack.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these bars as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
- As a Breakfast Bar: Pair these bars with a serving of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.Conclusion
Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are the perfect blend of chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and a hint of sweetness. They’re easy to make, versatile, and ideal for satisfying those mid-day cravings or providing a quick breakfast option. Whether you’re making them for a family snack or a gathering, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the nutty goodness in every bite!
