Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares

Oatmeal bars have long been a convenient and healthy snack option, but when you infuse them with the sweet, tangy flavor of cherries, you elevate them to a new level of deliciousness. Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are a delightful combination of nutty, chewy, and fruity goodness, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert. In this article, we’ll explore how to make these delectable treats, their nutritional benefits, and some handy tips to ensure your baking experience is a success.

Ingredients

To create the perfect batch of Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Brown sugar: 1 cup (packed)
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (melted)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Almond extract: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh or frozen sweet cherries: 1 cup (pitted and chopped)
• Chopped nuts: 1/2 cup (such as almonds or walnuts)
• Honey: 1/4 cup
• Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup

Instructions

Creating these Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the best results:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, honey, and Greek yogurt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars dense.
5. Fold in Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped cherries and nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Cut: Allow the baked bars to cool in the dish for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving (based on 16 servings per batch):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 95mg

These bars are a good source of dietary fiber, healthy fats from nuts, and antioxidants from cherries, making them a nutritious choice for any time of the day.

How to Serve

Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are an incredibly versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their delightful balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients makes them suitable for various occasions. Here are some comprehensive ways to serve and enjoy these delicious squares:

Breakfast

Start your day on a wholesome note by incorporating Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares into your breakfast routine. They can be paired seamlessly with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing cup of tea, making for a quick and satisfying morning meal. For those busy mornings when time is scarce, these squares are easy to grab and eat on the go. You can also enhance your breakfast experience by adding a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, which not only complements the flavors of the cherry squares but also boosts your intake of vitamins and nutrients. Additionally, drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the squares can add an extra layer of sweetness if desired.

Snack

Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares make for an excellent mid-morning or afternoon snack, providing a quick energy boost to keep you going throughout the day. They are perfect for combating those mid-afternoon slumps, especially when paired with a healthy beverage like herbal tea or a smoothie. For a more indulgent experience, try spreading a thin layer of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, on top of the oatmeal squares. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a dose of healthy fats and protein, making your snack more filling and satisfying.

Dessert

Transform Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares into an indulgent dessert that can impress family and friends. Serve them warm, straight from the oven or reheated, and top them with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The warm squares paired with the cold ice cream create a delightful contrast in temperature that enhances the experience. For an extra touch of decadence, consider drizzling chocolate sauce or caramel over the top. You can also garnish with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added texture and flavor. This makes for an elegant yet simple dessert option for gatherings, dinner parties, or a special family meal.

Lunchbox Treat

Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are the perfect addition to a child’s lunchbox, providing a delicious and nutritious treat that kids will love. Their portable nature allows them to be easily packed alongside other lunch favorites, ensuring that lunchtime is both fun and satisfying. To make them even more appealing, consider cutting the squares into fun shapes using cookie cutters or wrapping them in colorful parchment paper. This not only makes them visually enticing but can also spark kids’ excitement for healthy eating. You can enhance the nutritional value by pairing the squares with a side of yogurt or a small container of fruit salad, creating a balanced and enjoyable lunch that kids will look forward to.

Additional Serving Suggestions

For those looking to customize their Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares experience, consider experimenting with toppings or accompaniments. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add a touch of sweetness and sophistication. You could also serve the squares with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of honey and vanilla for a creamy contrast. If you’re hosting a brunch or a casual gathering, consider offering a variety of toppings, such as fresh fruits, nuts, or yogurt, allowing guests to create their own personalized oatmeal square experience. This interactive element can make serving these squares even more enjoyable and engaging.

In conclusion, Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are not just a treat; they are a versatile culinary delight that can be enjoyed in numerous ways throughout the day. Whether as a nutritious breakfast, a quick snack, an indulgent dessert, or a kid-friendly lunchbox addition, these squares cater to various tastes and occasions, making them a staple in any kitchen.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares turn out perfectly every time, consider these comprehensive tips that will help you achieve the best flavor and texture, as well as accommodate various preferences and situations:

Cherry Variations

If fresh cherries are not in season, using frozen cherries is an excellent alternative. However, there are a few steps to ensure they integrate seamlessly into your recipe:

• Thawing: Allow the frozen cherries to thaw completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This prevents excess moisture from being released during baking, which could make your squares soggy.
• Draining: After thawing, drain the cherries well. You can also pat them dry with a paper towel to absorb any additional moisture before adding them to the batter. This simple step helps maintain the integrity of the oatmeal squares.
• Canned Cherries: If you prefer, you can also use canned cherries. Choose those packed in water or natural juice instead of syrup to avoid additional sweetness. Be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove any syrupy residue.

Nut Substitutions

Experimenting with nuts can elevate the flavor and texture of your Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares. Here are some popular alternatives:

• Pecans: Their buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of cherries and adds a crunchy texture.
• Hazelnuts: Chopped hazelnuts bring a distinct, nutty aroma that complements the cherries well, giving your bars a gourmet touch.
• Cashews: For a creamier texture, try using roasted cashews. Their mild flavor won’t overpower the dish, while still providing a satisfying crunch.
• Almonds: Sliced or chopped almonds can provide a delightful crunch and a subtle flavor that harmonizes with the oats and cherries.

When substituting nuts, maintain the same quantity to keep the balance of the recipe intact. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, consider adding seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Sweetness Adjustment

Tailoring the sweetness of your Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares allows you to customize the recipe to your liking:

• Honey Variations: If you prefer a milder sweetness, start with a smaller amount of honey and taste the batter before baking. You can always add more if needed.
• Maple Syrup: For a unique flavor profile, replace honey with pure maple syrup. This not only alters the sweetness but also adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you seek a lower-calorie option, consider using stevia or monk fruit sweetener. These natural sweeteners can be used in smaller amounts since they are much sweeter than sugar or honey.
• Flavor Enhancements: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can enhance the overall flavor without adding extra sweetness. This can create a more complex taste experience in your oatmeal squares.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness and quality of your Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares:

• Airtight Containers: Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from drying out.
• Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. This cool storage will help maintain their texture and flavor.
• Freezing for Longevity: For long-term storage, these oatmeal squares can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm squares, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will revive their original texture and make them feel fresh out of the oven.

By following these tips, you can ensure your Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are not only delicious but also perfectly tailored to your tastes and lifestyle. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and savoring the delightful results!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares gluten-free by using gluten-free oats and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q2: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt or applesauce for a similar texture and moisture.

Q3: How can I make these bars vegan?

To make these bars vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), and substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

Q4: Can I add other fruits to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples for added flavor and nutrition.

Q5: How do I prevent the bars from becoming too dry?

Ensure you don’t overbake the bars and consider adding a bit more Greek yogurt or a splash of milk if the batter seems too dry before baking.

Conclusion

Sweet Cherry Oatmeal Squares are a delightful, wholesome treat that seamlessly blends the nutty flavors of oats and nuts with the vibrant sweetness of cherries. Easy to make and versatile in serving, they are a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and delicious snack. Whether you’re preparing a batch for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these oatmeal squares are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the scrumptious taste of homemade goodness!

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