Nourish - Fruit and Seed Oat Squares
These fruit and seed oat squares are packed with goodness for a healthy breakfast, snack or lunch box treat. This is a recipe that children will enjoy making and offers a fresh alternative to commercial sugary versions.
Ingredients
- 275g organic porridge oats*
- 4 tbsp. coconut oil
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 3 tbsp. ground flaxseed
- 3 tbsp. tahini or peanut butter*
- 1 tbsp. pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp. dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp. dates, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. dried figs, finely chopped*If you wish to make these gluten-free, try using Infinity Organic Gluten-Free Oats.
Method
- Line a 23cm tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 180 c/gas 4
- Gently melt the coconut oil, tahini (or peanut butter) and honey over a low heat.
- Remove this from the heat once melted and gradually stir in all the other ingredients, making sure everything is well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the baking tray and pack it well to the edges.
- You can make two different mixes using half the quantity for each and separate them on the tray with a rolled strip of tin foil.
- Sprinkle the top with some seeds if desired and gently press them on.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, checking towards the end; if they are over baked they will become too crumbly and difficult to slice.
- Allow the tray to cool completely before cutting into squares. They can be drizzled with some yoghurt or laced with maple syrup before serving if desired.
Store in an airtight container.
When you’re using tahini or nut butter to make these fruit and seed oat squares, remember to always stir the butters before using. The oils tend to separate and float on the top when they haven’t been stirred recently. It is also important to use a brand that doesn’t contain added sugars or salt.
The contents of these fruit and seed oat squares can also be varied according to taste. You’ve run out of honey? Try maple syrup.
You’re not a fan of figs but love anything with raisins? Then swap out the dried fruits.
Any nut butter, such as cashew or almond would also work well here if you’re not into peanut butter.
Two versions can be baked on one tray by simply placing a foil strip between them.
This recipe will fill a 23cm baking tray.
Nutrition
Flaxseeds (aka linseeds) are one of nature’s richest plant sources of Omega 3 and an excellent source of dietary fibre.
Omega 3 is an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid that must be obtained through our diet and may help to maintain a healthy heart and brain function.
Dietary fibre aids in digestion and helps maintain regularity and cholesterol levels.
Interested in more ways to use nut butters in your baking? Try Emma’s Easy Peanut Butter Choc Chip Cookies.
Any questions? Drop into your local Nourish store to speak with our team and find our full range of foods, supplements and skincare. You can also explore our online store.
