Playful bars blend chewy gummies, crunchy candy, and wholesome oats for a sweet, satisfying bite.
# What you'll need:
→ Snack Bar Base
01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
03 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
04 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
05 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Pinch salt
→ Homemade Gummies
07 - 1 cup fruit juice, such as apple, berry, or orange
08 - 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
09 - 2 to 3 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
→ Mash-Up Toppings
10 - 1 cup freeze-dried fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, lightly crushed
11 - 1 cup freeze-dried candy, such as Skittles or marshmallows, crushed or chopped
# Method:
01 - Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and refrigerate while preparing gummies.
03 - Pour fruit juice into a small saucepan and sprinkle gelatin evenly over the surface. Allow to bloom for 5 minutes. Heat gently over low, stirring constantly until gelatin is fully dissolved. Add honey or agave syrup, mix well and pour the liquid into a parchment-lined small baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator for 45 to 60 minutes until completely set.
04 - Once set, remove the gummies and cut into small uniform cubes with a sharp knife.
05 - Remove the oat base from the refrigerator. Evenly distribute homemade gummy cubes, crushed freeze-dried fruits, and freeze-dried candy on top. Gently press toppings into the base with a spatula.
06 - Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until toppings are firmly set.
07 - Lift the mixture out of the pan using parchment paper. Slice into 12 bars using a sharp knife. Serve immediately or store chilled.
