Celebrate the essence of spring with these delightful Lemon Baked Oatmeal Bars, where the zest and vivacity of lemon meet the wholesome goodness of oats in a gluten-free and vegan treat. These bars are not just a feast for the senses with their bright, citrusy flavor but also a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with filling protein to kickstart your day or to enjoy as a rejuvenating snack. Perfect for meal prep or on-the-go snacking, these bars embody the freshness of spring in every bite.
Why You'll Love This: These Lemon Baked Oatmeal Bars are the perfect blend of delicious and nutritious, offering a guilt-free way to indulge your lemon cravings. They're crafted to cater to both gluten-free and vegan diets without compromising on taste or texture. The addition of vegan vanilla protein powder boosts the protein content, making these bars as satisfying as they are scrumptious. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast option or a healthy snack, these oatmeal bars are sure to delight with their zesty lemon flavor and tender, moist texture.
Perfect Occasion: These oatmeal bars are ideal for spring gatherings, brunches, or as a bright addition to your Easter spread. They're also perfect for everyday snacking, providing a nutritious energy boost pre- or post-workout, or as a convenient breakfast option during busy mornings. Pack them for picnics, take them to work for a midday snack, or enjoy them as a post-dinner treat that won't weigh you down.
Decoration Tips: To add an extra touch of elegance and flavor to these bars, consider garnishing them with thinly sliced lemon rounds, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a few edible flowers before serving. For a more decadent finish, add a drizzle of lemon glaze on top of the frosting for an additional lemony kick. The key is to enhance the natural beauty and flavor of the bars without overwhelming their delicate balance.
Ingredients:
- Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: 2 cups
- Dairy-Free Thick Yogurt: 1/2 cup
- Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder: 3/4 cup
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup
- Maple Syrup: 2 to 4 tablespoons, to taste
- Almond Milk: 1 1/2 cups
For the Frosting:
- Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: 8 ounces
- Dairy-Free Thick Yogurt: 1/4 cup
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1/4 teaspoon
- Powdered Monk Fruit Sugar: 1/4 cup
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the rolled oats, dairy-free yogurt, vegan protein powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, and almond milk until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until set and golden.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
- For the frosting, beat together the dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and powdered monk fruit sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Once the bars have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve. Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest or lemon slices for a decorative touch.
Enjoy these Spring-Inspired Lemon Baked Oatmeal Bars, a gluten-free, vegan, and high-protein delight that perfectly captures the zest of the season. Enjoy!