Transform your breakfast routine with these carrot cake baked oats bars, which perfectly blend the wholesome goodness of oats with the rich flavor of carrot cake. These bars are not only packed with nutrients from natural ingredients like rolled oats and carrots but are also irresistibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the unique addition of avocado oil and maple syrup. Topped with a creamy and slightly sweet cream cheese glaze, these bars offer a satisfying treat that feels indulgent yet is wonderfully nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This: These bars strike an ideal balance between health and flavor. They’re easy to make and incorporate the comforting spices of cinnamon and vanilla, which complement the natural sweetness of the carrots and maple syrup. The avocado oil adds a subtle richness that enhances the moist texture of the bars. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome snack or breakfast option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Perfect Occasion: These carrot cake baked oats bars are fantastic for brunches, afternoon tea, or as a grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings. They’re also a great addition to any picnic basket or as a wholesome snack for school lunches. If you’re hosting a gathering, serve these bars as a part of a breakfast buffet or as a healthy dessert option.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon on top of the cream cheese glaze before it sets. If you’re serving these at a special event, consider cutting the bars into decorative shapes with a cookie cutter for a playful presentation. Additionally, a few edible flowers can add a splash of color and sophistication to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 2/3 cups + 1/4 cup milk, divided
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 5 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup, plus 1 tablespoon
- 1 cup grated carrots
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all wet ingredients: 1 2/3 cups of milk, eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, avocado oil, and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture: rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 7×7 or 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the bars are set.
- Allow the bars to cool slightly in the pan.
- For the glaze, combine the softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 tablespoon milk in a small bowl until smooth.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled bars.
Enjoy!
