Easy Copycat Oatmeal Z-Bars

My kids love all flavors of the Cliff Z-Bars. However, I do not love the price.

So what do we do? Give a go at making our own. Happily after some recipe testing I developed a keeper. My kids gobbled up these easy copycat oatmeal z-bars. They are convenient and fairly low in sugar. Depending how busy I am, I try to make my own version of snack because they are lower cost and usually healthier. They are on our rotation of the usual snack. Fruit, yogurt with berries, smoothies, peanut butter crackers, popcorn, cheese sticks, vegetables with hummus, boiled eggs, granola bars, and protein bites.

You can take a look here for the latest protein bites we made. I have to say I like them more than the original buckeye bits that are often made during the December holiday’s.

I am really happy with how these easy copycat oatmeal z-bars came out.

Here are some tips.

• Soak your dates if you have time. They will blend smoother. You can get dates here if you can’t find them at your store.
• You can blend the second batch of oats a much as you want. Do you want it totally smooth go for it. With more whole oats, just pulse a few times.
• You can use maple syrup, agave, or honey if desired. I used sugar because that is what I had on hand. Just remember to reduce the water.
• Let the batter sit for a little. It will thicken up for you and will not spread as much in the pan.
• Spray your pan! It will help releasing. I did not sure parchment but you can also line the pan with parchment. I like using a square 8X8 or rectangular 7X11.
• Experiment with how thick you like your bars.
• You can also add a scoop or two of protein powder. You might need to add a tablespoon or two of more water to compensate.

Give these copycat oatmeal z-bars a try. It is another easy one for the kids to do with you!

Cook Well, Eat Well, Live Well!