Vibrant Gummy Snack Bars (Print version)

Colorful bars layered with chewy gummies and crispy fruit, set atop a hearty oat blend for satisfying snacking.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 of 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, marshmallows, or similar), crushed or chopped

# How To Make It:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until fully integrated. Press mixture firmly into the prepared pan and refrigerate while making the gummies.
03 - Pour fruit juice into a small saucepan. Sprinkle unflavored gelatin evenly over the juice and let stand 5 minutes. Gently heat over low, stirring until gelatin is dissolved completely. Stir in honey or agave syrup. Pour mixture into a parchment-lined small baking dish. Refrigerate for 45 to 60 minutes until set.
04 - Remove set gummy slab from the refrigerator. Slice into small cubes.
05 - Retrieve chilled oat base. Evenly scatter homemade gummy cubes, freeze-dried fruit, and freeze-dried candy across the surface. Press gently to help toppings adhere.
06 - Return pan to the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to set the toppings.
07 - Lift the snack slab out using parchment paper overhang. Slice into 12 bars and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Incorporates multiple textures for a truly satisfying snack
  • Customizable—swap the fruits and candies to fit any mood or season
  • No-bake method means no waiting for the oven and less fuss
  • Kid-approved and perfect for making together on the weekend
02 -
  • High fiber thanks to oats
  • Endlessly adaptable for diets and allergies
  • Stays fresh in the fridge up to a week
03 -
  • Let the oat base chill thoroughly so it stays firm during cutting
  • Dissolve gelatin slowly in cold juice to avoid clumps before heating
  • Press toppings into the base while it is still a little tacky For extra hold scatter some crushed freeze-dried fruit on top of the gummies before the final chilling step