How to Make the Perfect Oat Fingers
American · Easy · 28 min · 8 servings
Baked oat fingers are a wholesome and hearty kid friendly recipe that makes a fantastic grab and go snack for babies during baby led weaning. Made with just a handful of simple pantry ingredients, these soft bars are easy to hold and full of iron and fiber.
Why this recipe works
This Oat Fingers recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 28 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 95 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large ripe banana mashed
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil melted
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl mash the banana completely smooth, then add eggs, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon. Mix well until combined. Stir in the rolled oats until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 2: Spread in Pan
Grease a small 8 by 8 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. Spread the oat mixture evenly across the pan pressing down firmly so it forms a flat even layer about half an inch thick.
Step 3: Bake Until Set
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are pulling away from the sides of the pan. The center should feel firm to the touch and not jiggle when you gently move the pan.
Step 4: Slice Into Fingers
Allow to cool completely in the pan, then cut into finger shaped strips approximately 1 inch wide and 3 inches long. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- banana → unsweetened pear puree for babies who dislike banana flavor
- coconut oil → unsalted melted butter for a different flavor profile
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not pressing the mixture down firmly enough in the pan causing crumbly bars that fall apart when baby grabs them
- Removing from the oven too early before the bars are fully set leading to a gummy soggy texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 95 calories, 4g protein, 14g carbs, 3g fat, 2g fiber.
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