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–+ servings
Nutty Squares
Nutty Squares are a delightful, chewy baked treat packed with oats, coconut, nuts, and just the right touch of spice. These bars are an excellent example of mid-20th-century homemade snacks, balancing nutrition and indulgence. Perfect as a wholesome dessert or a hearty lunchbox addition, this recipe combines whole grains and seeds with just enough sweetness to satisfy. With its unique blend of wheat germ and sesame seeds, it stands out from typical oat-based bars and reflects a time when home bakers began experimenting with healthful ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 squares
Calories 236 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup oat bran
  • 1 cup quick oats
  • ¼ cup sesame seeds (unroasted )
  • ¼ cup coconut (shredded )
  • ¼ cup wheat germ (toasted )
  • ½ cup nuts (choppe , e.g., walnuts or pecans)
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ⅛ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup peanut oil
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 3 egg whites
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine oat bran, quick oats, sesame seeds, shredded coconut, wheat germ, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Mixture

  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolk and egg whites. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and peanut oil. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

  • Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Bake

  • Spread evenly in an ungreased 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until golden.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

  • Let cool completely in the pan. Slice into squares to serve.

Tips

  • Substitute peanut oil with melted coconut oil or canola oil.
  • Add 2 tbsp of honey for extra moisture and sweetness.
  • Stir in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
  • Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique nutty flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 236kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 16mgSodium: 22mgPotassium: 188mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 26IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 28mgIron: 2mg
Keyword bars, chewy, coconut, nutty, oats
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