Maple Tahini Oatmeal Bars
A nutrient-rich, easy-to-make snack featuring wholesome oats, almond flour, and tahini with decadent dark chocolate chunks. These bites are perfect for breakfast or anytime hunger strikes, combining protein, fiber, and healthy fats for sustained energy.
Equipment
- 1 8x8 inch baking dish
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Silicone Spatula
- Parchment paper (enough to line the baking dish)
- Measuring cups and spoons (various sizes)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- 1 cup quick oats for a chewier texture, use rolled oats but reduce to ¾ cup
- ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ⅓ cup tahini sesame seed paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup dark chocolate chunks or chips
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, eggs, maple syrup, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, oats, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold these dry ingredients in with a spatula until fully combined into a thick batter.
- Add Chocolate Chunks: Carefully fold in most of the chocolate chunks, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top of the batter for a pretty finish.
- Transfer and Smooth Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use your spatula to spread and smooth the top, then sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks across the surface.
- Bake Until Set: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the baked oatmeal bites to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing into 12 squares. This helps them firm up for easier handling.
Notes
- For the best texture and flavor, stick to almond flour as the base. Substituting other flours may alter the consistency.
- While tahini is recommended for its unique flavor and healthy fats, you can experiment with other nut or seed butters if desired.
- Store these bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate to extend freshness up to two weeks.
- Using quick oats gives a tender crumb; rolled oats will produce a chewier bite but are also delicious.
- Feel free to swap dark chocolate for dairy-free or vegan chocolate to suit dietary needs.
