Save to Pinterest Soft, chewy breakfast bars featuring earthy matcha, tart cranberries, and a golden oat crumble—perfect for a wholesome start to your day or an energizing snack.
This recipe has become a family favorite because it combines healthy ingredients with a delicious taste, making mornings easier and tastier.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed, 2 tbsp matcha powder (culinary grade), 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free), 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Filling & Add-ins: 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or sweetened), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional), Zest of 1 orange (optional for brightness)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl combine oats whole wheat flour brown sugar matcha powder baking soda and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl whisk together melted butter honey (or maple syrup) egg and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Step 4:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The mixture will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Step 5:
- Fold in dried cranberries nuts and orange zest if using.
- Step 6:
- Reserve 3/4 cup of the mixture for the crumble topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the top pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 28–32 minutes or until the edges are golden and the top is set.
- Step 9:
- Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into 12 bars.
Save to Pinterest These bars have become a delicious family morning ritual and a quick snack that everyone looks forward to.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls measuring cups and spoons 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan parchment paper whisk spatula
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) egg milk (if using butter) tree nuts (if using walnuts/pecans). For gluten-free use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend. Always check labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories 190 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 30 g Protein 3 g per serving.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these wholesome bars as a tasty energizing start to your day or a satisfying snack anytime.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives these bars their earthy flavor?
The primary source of earthiness is culinary-grade matcha powder, which brings a subtle green tea note that complements the tartness of cranberries.
- → Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and using coconut oil with maple syrup instead of butter and honey, the bars become vegan-friendly.
- → How should the bars be stored to maintain freshness?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage to keep them fresh and chewy.
- → Can I add nuts to these bars?
Absolutely. Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the mixture to add crunch and richness, but they are optional based on your preference or allergies.
- → What is the role of the oat crumble topping?
The oat crumble, reserved from a portion of the mixture, is sprinkled on top to create a golden, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft base.
- → Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting rolled oats and whole wheat flour with certified gluten-free versions, you can prepare gluten-free bars suitable for sensitive diets.