The Culinary Journey Behind the Recipe
For passionate home cooks seeking a nutritious and delectable treat, these spiced brownie bars represent a perfect fusion of wholesome ingredients and innovative baking. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of citrus and warm spices, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a remarkable dessert that nourishes both body and soul.
Ingredients (US & Metric Measurements)
- Rolled Oats: 2 cups (200g/7oz)
- Water: 3/4 cup (200 ml/7 fl oz)
- Tangerines: 2 medium (zest and juice)
- Eggs (Vegan Alternative): 2 flax eggs
- Greek Yogurt (Vegan Alternative): 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (5g)
- Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Stevia: 2 tablespoons (powdered or liquid)
- Dried Apricots: 1/2 cup (80g/2.8oz)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation
- Preheat oven to 180°C/356°F
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper
- Prepare flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water)
- Dry Ingredient Mix
- Combine rolled oats, baking powder, ginger, and cinnamon
- Zest one tangerine and add to dry ingredients
- Wet Ingredient Blend
- Juice both tangerines
- Mix flax eggs, vegan yogurt, tangerine juice
- Add stevia to wet ingredients
- Blend until smooth
- Ingredient Combination
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients
- Mix thoroughly
- Chop dried apricots
- Fold apricots into batter
- Baking
- Transfer batter to prepared baking dish
- Spread evenly
- Bake for 40 minutes
- Check with toothpick for doneness
- Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximately):
- Calories: 150-180 kcal
- Protein: 5-6g
- Fat: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 4-5g
Preparation Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 bars
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, ripe tangerines for maximum flavor
- Ensure flax eggs are well-combined
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Allow bars to cool completely for best texture
- Store in an airtight container
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace tangerines with oranges
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of stevia
- Add dark chocolate chips
- Substitute apricots with raisins or dates
- Use different warming spices like nutmeg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are these truly vegan? Yes, when using flax eggs and vegan yogurt.
- Can I make them gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats.
- How long will they stay fresh? 3-4 days at room temperature, 1 week refrigerated.
- Can I freeze these bars? Yes, up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Are they diabetic-friendly? Low glycemic index, but consult healthcare provider.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in airtight container
- Keep at room temperature for 3-4 days
- Refrigerate for extended freshness
- Freeze individual portions
- Thaw at room temperature
These spiced tangerine brownie bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of wholesome ingredients and creative cooking. Enjoy the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor!
Bon appétit!