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Baked Oatmeal Carrot Cake Bars

Baked Oatmeal Carrot Cake Bars

These Baked Oatmeal Carrot Cake Bars combine the wholesome nutrition of rolled oats with the natural sweetness and moisture of grated carrots, enhanced by warm spices and a tender texture. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they bring health and indulgence together in a delicious, fiber-rich treat that’s easy to make ahead and customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or applesauce

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup freshly grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional – walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/3 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, and any optional spices. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the base of the bars.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt or applesauce. This mixture adds moisture and richness to keep the bars tender without becoming dense.
  3. Combine carrots and nuts: Fold the freshly grated carrots and, if using, chopped nuts or dried fruits into the wet ingredient mixture, adding moisture, sweetness, and optional crunch.
  4. Bring it all together: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly. The batter should be thick and cohesive yet easy to spread evenly in the pan.
  5. Bake: Transfer the batter to a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and smooth the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Use fresh carrots for the best moisture and sweetness; avoid pre-shredded carrots when possible.
  • Do not overmix the batter once wet and dry ingredients are combined to avoid dense bars.
  • Chill the bars before slicing to help them hold their shape.
  • Adjust spices to your taste—some may prefer more cinnamon or a dash of cardamom.
  • Use rolled oats instead of instant oats for better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked oatmeal, carrot cake bars, healthy snack, gluten free, breakfast bars, fiber-rich snack