Bright bars blend homemade gummies, freeze-dried candy, and oats for a fun, chewy dessert.
# Components:
→ 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 100% 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
# Directions:
01 - Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring all sides are covered.
02 - In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until integrated, then press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Chill in the refrigerator while making the gummies.
03 - Pour fruit juice into a small saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the liquid and allow it to absorb for 5 minutes. Warm gently over low heat, stirring constantly until gelatin is fully dissolved. Blend in honey or agave syrup, then transfer to a parchment-lined small dish. Refrigerate 45 to 60 minutes until firmly set.
04 - Once chilled and set, cut the homemade gummies into small uniform cubes.
05 - Remove the oat base from refrigeration. Evenly distribute gummy cubes, freeze-dried fruit, and freeze-dried candy over the surface. Lightly press toppings into the base for secure adhesion.
06 - Return the pan to the refrigerator for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to ensure the bars are fully set.
07 - Lift the bar slab out of the pan using parchment paper. Cut into 12 equal bars with a sharp knife and serve.
