5 Healthy Oats Snacks You Can Make at Home

Oats are a superfood packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a perfect ingredient for healthy snacks. Versatile and easy to work with, oats can be incorporated into various recipes that not only taste great but also keep you full and energized throughout the day. Here are 5 healthy oat-based snacks you can make at home.

# Oats and Banana Energy Balls

Ingredients for Oats and Banana Energy Balls

1 cup rolled oats
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
A handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

How to Make Oats and Banana Energy Balls

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, and honey until smooth. Add in the oats and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts if desired. Scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Place the energy balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. These energy balls are perfect for a quick snack or a pre-workout bite.

# Baked Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal Bars

1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond or peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup applesauce
1/4 cup raisins or dried fruit
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of cinnamon

How to Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, honey, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Stir in the oats, dried fruit, and cinnamon until fully combined. Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and press down firmly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. These oatmeal bars are great for a satisfying mid-day snack.

# Savory Oats Chivda

Ingredients for Savory Oats Chivda

1 cup rolled oats
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
A few curry leaves
1/4 cup roasted peanuts
1/4 cup roasted chickpeas (optional)
Salt to taste
A pinch of turmeric
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)

How to Make Savory Oats Chivda

In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds and curry leaves until they splutter. Add peanuts and roasted chickpeas, and sauté until golden brown. Add the oats, turmeric, and salt, mixing well to combine all the flavors. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili powder. Toast the oats until they’re crispy, then remove from heat and let cool. This savory oats chivda makes for a crunchy, low-calorie snack that’s perfect for munching on any time of day.

# Oats Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients for Oats Smoothie Bowl

1/2 cup rolled oats
1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1 banana
1/2 cup berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
A handful of nuts and seeds for topping

How to Make Oats Smoothie Bowl

In a blender, add the oats, almond milk, banana, berries, and chia seeds, blending until smooth. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top it with your choice of nuts, seeds, and extra berries for texture and crunch. This oats smoothie bowl is both filling and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome snack or even breakfast.

# Oats Pancakes

Ingredients for Oats Pancakes

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 ripe banana
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
A pinch of salt
Honey or maple syrup for serving

How to Make Oats Pancakes

In a blender, combine the oats, milk, banana, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, blending until a smooth batter forms. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour small amounts of the batter to form pancakes. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Serve the pancakes with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. These oats pancakes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, making them a guilt-free snack.