Make-Ahead Breakfast Bars

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., cranberries, apricots)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the liquid mixture into it. Stir until combined.
5. Add the mixed dried fruits, rolled oats, and chocolate chips and mix well.
6. Spread the mixture into a greased 8x8-inch baking pan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Nutritional Information: (per bar)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 20g (includes natural sugar from dried fruits)

Dish Characteristics:

• Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored for several days or even frozen for longer storage.
• Taste: A combination of sweet and savory with the dried fruits and chocolate chips providing a rich flavor profile.
• Texture: Chewy with a slight crunch from the oats and chocolate.

User Comments:

1. "These breakfast bars are a great way to start the day! The combination of fruits and chocolate is so satisfying."
2. "I love how easy these are to make ahead of time and have ready for a quick breakfast on the go."
3. "The texture is perfect - not too hard and not too soft. The chocolate gives it a nice little kick!"
4. "A great way to get some more nutrition in the morning with all the dried fruits and oats."
5. "This recipe is a family favorite! It's perfect for weekend mornings when we want something different than regular breakfast."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to ensure proper texture.
• Use a toothpick to check if the bars are done baking to avoid overcooking.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer storage.