INTRODUCTION

Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares are a delightful treat that combines flavors and textures in a simple dessert. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a sweet snack made with wholesome ingredients. The combination of juicy pears, nutty almonds, and hearty oats creates a wonderful harmony that will please your taste buds. Whether you want a treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert after dinner, these squares fit the bill!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it is easy to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. You don’t need fancy baking skills to whip these up. Second, the baked squares are naturally sweetened with fruit and combined with oats, making them a healthier option compared to many store-bought snacks. They are also vegan-friendly, gluten-free if you choose certified oats, and can be enjoyed by almost anyone. Lastly, the smell of pears and almonds baking in your kitchen will fill your home with a warm, inviting scent, making it hard for anyone to resist these delicious treats!

HOW TO MAKE Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To bake these delicious squares, you will need the following equipment:

An oven
A baking dish (8×8 inch or similar)
Mixing bowls
A whisk or spoon for mixing
A knife and cutting board
A measuring cup and spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need:

2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup ground almonds
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped almonds (for topping, optional)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup non-dairy milk (or regular milk)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your squares bake evenly.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease your baking dish with a little almond butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped rolled oats, ground almonds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix them together well.
Add the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, and non-dairy milk. Stir until smooth and combined.
Combine the Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture will be thick.
Fold in the Pears: Gently fold in the diced pears until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly in the dish.
Add Toppings: If you like, sprinkle some chopped almonds on top for added crunch and flavor.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Cut into squares as desired.

HOW TO SERVE Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares

These squares can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own, but you can also serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. Additionally, pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee makes for a cozy treat.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares

Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. To freeze, wrap each square in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds to warm them up.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Optional additions include a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or serving with fresh fruit slices. You could also drizzle some honey, maple syrup, or your favorite nut butter over the squares for an extra flavorful treat. For a richer dessert, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to customize this basic recipe! Here are some ideas:

Add spices: Mix in some nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor.
Include other fruits: You can swap pears for apples or peaches.
Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can replace some of the almonds.
Make it sweeter: Add chocolate chips for a sweeter square.
Use different butters: If you don’t have almond butter, peanut butter or sunflower seed butter can also work.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pears for this recipe?
Yes, canned pears will work, but be sure to drain them well and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

2. Are these squares gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free oats, then yes, these squares can be gluten-free.

3. Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter and skip the almonds for a nut-free version.

4. How can I make these squares more protein-packed?
You can add a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients for an extra protein boost.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares

You can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Store it in the fridge overnight and then bake it the next day. This will save you time and allow the flavors to meld together even more. You can also bake a larger batch and freeze portions so you always have a tasty snack on hand.

With these simple steps and easy ingredients, you can enjoy delicious Baked Pear, Almond & Oat Squares any time you like. Happy Baking!