5 Ingredient Maple Shortbread Oat Bar

This Gluten Free 5-Ingredient Maple Shortbread Oat Bar recipe is a good blend of simplicity, nutrition and flavor to satisfy your sweet cravings and keep you energized. 

Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a quick fix or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is fuss-free and beginner-friendly. 

With just five simple ingredients, you can create a gluten free, nut-free and egg-free batch of maple-infused shortbread oat bars that are nutritious and satisfying.

gluten free oats vs certified gluten free oats

Gluten-free oats and certified gluten-free oats are both gluten free. However, there is a vital distinction between the two.

Gluten-Free Oats:

Gluten-free oats refer to oats that are naturally free from gluten. Oats are inherently gluten-free, but they are often contaminated with gluten during harvesting, processing, or transportation.

This occurs because oats are commonly grown close to wheat, barley, and rye, which are gluten-containing grains. Cross-contamination can happen when the same equipment is used to handle both gluten-containing grains and oats.

These oats undergo specific processes and testing to verify that they contain less than the allowable threshold for gluten (usually 20 parts per million or ppm). 

Individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity must choose certified gluten-free oats to avoid any potential adverse reactions.

Certified Gluten-Free Oats:

Certified gluten-free oats go one step further regarding safety and assurance. These oats undergo rigorous third-party testing and certification to guarantee that they meet the strict standards for gluten-free products. The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) and the Canadian Celiac Association’s Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP) are among notable certifying bodies.

When you see the “certified gluten-free” label on oat products, they have passed the required testing and are safe for consumption by individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

In summary, while gluten-free and certified gluten-free oats are suitable for people avoiding gluten, certified gluten-free oats provide an extra layer of confidence as they have undergone stringent testing to meet the highest gluten-free standards. 

If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it’s best to opt for certified gluten-free oats to ensure they are free of any gluten.

Check out our selection of gluten free recipes made with certified gluten free oats to get you inspired!

How to make oat flour?

Making oat flour is a simple process that involves grinding rolled oats into a fine powder. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make oat flour:

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
• High-speed blender or food processor

Instructions:

Choose the Right Oats: Ensure you have rolled oats on hand. You can find them labeled as “rolled oats,” “old-fashioned oats,” or “whole oats.” Do not use steel-cut oats.

Measure the Amount: Determine how much oat flour you need for your recipe. The rule of thumb is 1 1/4 cups of oats make 1 cup of flour.

Blend the Oats: Add the desired amount of rolled oats into a high-speed blender or food processor. If you’re making a large batch, you may need to grind the oats in batches to avoid overcrowding the appliance.

Grind Until Fine: Start blending or processing the oats on high speed. The goal is to grind the oats into a fine powder, similar to store-bought flour. This usually takes around 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the power of your appliance.

Check Consistency: Pause blending or processing occasionally to check the texture of the oat flour. It should be smooth and free of large oat pieces. If needed, scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor to ensure even grinding.

Sift (Optional): For an even finer texture, you can sift the oat flour through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining coarse bits. The sifted oat flour will make your recipes smoother and more consistent.

Storage: Transfer the oat flour to an airtight container or resealable bag for storage. It’s best to use the oat flour within a few weeks to maintain its freshness.

That’s it! Your homemade oat flour is ready to use in various recipes, such as pancakes, cookies, muffins, and more. The process is quick and easy, allowing you to have a fresh supply of oat flour whenever you need it.

Are oats nutritious?

Yes, oats are highly nutritious and considered a healthy addition to one’s diet. They are whole-grain food that provides an array of essential nutrients and health benefits. Here 8 reasons why including certified gluten free oats are a good addition to a balanced diet.

• Complex Carbohydrates: Oats are a rich source of complex carbohydrates, the body’s primary energy source. They provide a steady release of energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. The soluble fiber beta-glucan, in particular, has been associated with various health benefits, such as improving heart health and promoting better digestion. Fiber also helps keep you full and satisfied, aiding in weight management.
• Protein: Oats contain moderate protein, making them a good plant-based protein option, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
• Micronutrients: Oats contain essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6). These nutrients play vital roles in various bodily functions, such as energy metabolism, bone health, and immune function.
• Antioxidants: Oats contain various antioxidants, including avenanthramides, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress.
• Cholesterol-Lowering Effects: The beta-glucan fiber in oats has been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Blood Sugar Management: The soluble fiber in oats can slow down the absorption of sugar, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, which is particularly important for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
• Weight Management: As a high-fiber and filling food, oats can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.

Incorporating oats into your diet can be a nutritious and health-promoting choice. They are versatile and can be enjoyed in various forms, such as oatmeal, overnight oats, or granola bars, and baked goods.

Serving suggestions for Gluten Free Maple Shortbread Oat Bar

Plain and Simple: Enjoy the bars as a wholesome snack or energy bar. Their melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture and sweet maple flavor make them very tasty.

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Pair the bars with your favorite hot beverage, such as tea or coffee, for a comforting and indulgent breakfast or afternoon treat.

Ice Cream Topping: Crumble the bars over a scoop of vanilla or maple-flavored ice cream for a delightful dessert. The combination of warm shortbread oat bars and cold, creamy ice cream is heavenly.

Yogurt Parfait: Create a gluten-free yogurt parfait by layering the crumbled bars with your favorite gluten-free yogurt and fresh fruit. This makes for a delicious and wholesome breakfast or a delightful dessert option.

Fruit Crumble Topping: Sprinkle the crumbled bars over a fruit crumble for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The oats and maple taste will complement a variety of fruits like apples, peaches, or berries.

Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Whether you enjoy these Gluten-Free Maple Shortbread Oat Bars on their own or get creative with the serving ideas, they have a hint of maple flavor and buttery texture, making them gluten-free goodness.

Key Points – 5-Ingredient Gluten-Free Maple Shortbread Oat Bar Recipe:

Simple Ingredients: The recipe requires only five basic ingredients, making it easy to prepare without the need for complicated baking techniques or specialty ingredients.

Gluten-Free: The recipe is entirely gluten-free, using certified gluten-free oats to ensure it is safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Maple Flavor: The bars are infused with the delicious maple flavor, adding an epic taste to the shortbread oat bar.

Minimal Effort: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is beginner-friendly and perfect for those new to gluten-free baking.

Wholesome and Nutritious: The bars are made with whole-grain oats, providing a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthier alternative to traditional sweet treats.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the bars as a standalone snack, pair them with tea or coffee, crumble them over ice cream or yogurt, or use them as a topping for fruit crumbles.

Make-Ahead and Portable: The bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container, making them a convenient and portable snack for on-the-go or picnics.

Customizable: While the shortbread oat bar is impressive as-is, there is room for creativity by adding various mix-ins like 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, seeds, chopped dried fruits, or mini chocolate chips to customize the flavor and texture. 

Healthier Sweet Treat: The bars offer a guilt-free way to indulge in a sweet treat, especially for those looking to manage their sugar intake or follow a gluten-free lifestyle.

Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, these gluten-free maple shortbread oat bars are perfect for family gatherings, parties, and energizing snacks.

Whether it’s for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply a well-deserved treat, I hope you enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this 5-ingredient gluten free maple shortbread oat bar. They may become a staple in your baking repertoire.

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Kristina xx