Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

These Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan) are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of figs with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack, these bars offer a guilt-free indulgence without refined sugar. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, making them suitable for various occasions, from casual family breakfasts to packed lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh figs and wholesome flours, these bars provide nourishment without sacrificing taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal equipment, anyone can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, midday snack, or dessert – they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Guilt-Free Indulgence: These bars are free from refined sugars and gluten, allowing you to indulge without worry.
• Make-Ahead Option: They store well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare a batch ahead of time for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing these Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan) much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• 8-inch square baking pan
• Medium or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents the bars from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture when combining dry and wet ingredients.

Ingredients

These are the key ingredients you will need to make your Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan):

• 1 pound ripe figs, washed, stems removed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, plus the zest of the lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups gluten-free rolled oats
• ⅔ cup almond flour
• ⅓ cup tapioca flour
• ¼ cup coconut sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

How to Make Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Fig Jam Filling

In a medium or large pot, combine the chopped figs and maple syrup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until bubbling and thickened (approximately 15–20 minutes). If needed, add 1–2 tablespoons of water if the mixture sticks or burns. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Allow it to cool while you prepare the oatmeal crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Oatmeal Crust Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, tapioca flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add melted coconut oil and maple syrup to the oat mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Form the Crust in Baking Pan

Reserve 1/2 cup of the oatmeal crumble mixture. Firmly press the remaining oat mixture into your prepared baking pan. Ensure it is compactly pressed to avoid crumbling later.

Step 6: Add Fig Jam Filling

Carefully spread the fig mixture over the crust you’ve formed. Crumble the reserved oat mixture evenly over this fig layer. Press down gently to ensure it sticks together.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned on top. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into 16 equal squares; refrigerating them before cutting can help maintain their shape better.

Enjoy your homemade Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)! Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for future snacking.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

These delicious Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan) can be enjoyed in various creative ways. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices on top for a naturally sweet and creamy addition.
• Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Almond Butter: Spread almond butter over the bars for extra protein and a nutty flavor.
• Peanut Butter: A classic pairing that adds richness and depth to your snack.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer pieces of the bars with yogurt and fruit for a healthy parfait.
• Smoothie Bowl Topper: Crumble the bars over your favorite smoothie bowl for added crunch.

Dressed Up with Drizzles

• Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle warm maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
• Coconut Cream: Top with a dollop of coconut cream for a tropical twist.

How to Perfect Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

To ensure your Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Ripe Figs: Ripe figs provide the best flavor and sweetness for the filling. Look for figs that are soft to the touch.
• Press Firmly: When pressing the oat mixture into the pan, make sure it’s compact. This helps create a sturdy base that won’t crumble easily.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents crumbling.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your oat mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

Pairing side dishes with your Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Yogurt: A side of creamy Greek yogurt complements the sweetness of the bars while adding protein.
2. Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of fig bars.
3. Chia Pudding: Pairing these bars with chia pudding adds nutrients and fiber, making for a wholesome snack.
4. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, balancing out the sweetness.
5. Coconut Chunks: Fresh coconut chunks add tropical flair and pair well with fig flavors.
6. Herbal Tea: Enjoying these bars with a cup of herbal tea creates a comforting afternoon treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan) can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping fig preparation – Not properly chopping or washing the figs can lead to uneven cooking and texture. Always ensure figs are clean and chopped uniformly.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can result in tough bars. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not pressing the crust firmly – Failing to press the oat mixture firmly into the pan might cause it to crumble. Make sure to pack it down well for stability.
• Ignoring cooling time – Cutting the bars while warm can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Using too much liquid – Adding too much water to the fig filling can make it runny. Use only what is necessary for thickening.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan)

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat each bar on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place bars in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan).

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried figs if you soak them in warm water beforehand. This will help soften them for better blending.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, like almond flour and tapioca flour.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or other dried fruits to enhance flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with these bars?

These bars pair well with nut butter or yogurt for added protein at breakfast or snack time.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten-Free Oatmeal Fig Bars (Vegan) are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they satisfy without guilt. Feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or spices to make them uniquely yours!