These Maple Pecan Oatmeal Bars are a delightful blend of chewy, crunchy, and naturally sweet flavors, making them a perfect anytime treat.
Packed with fiber-rich oats, heart-healthy pecans, and a touch of maple syrup, they provide sustained energy and satisfying texture.
Quick to prepare and easy to store, they are ideal for snacks, lunchboxes, or cozy desserts.
Chewy Maple Pecan Oatmeal Bars
Equipment
- 13×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (2 medium)
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 3/4 cup 1 1/2 sticks butter or margarine, melted
- 2 1/4 cups quick or old-fashioned oats uncooked
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup shredded coconut optional
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt optional
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans about 6 ounces
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray, butter, or parchment paper. This ensures the bars won’t stick and makes cleanup easier. Set the pan aside while you prepare the dough and topping.
- Melt the Butter: Place 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) of butter or margarine in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Gently melt it over low heat on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the egg in the next step.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of uncooked oats, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar, 3/4 cup of shredded coconut (if using), 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt (optional). Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture forms the sturdy base of your bars.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the slightly cooled melted butter, 1/3 cup of maple syrup, 1 lightly beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth and uniform. The warm, wet mixture will help bind the dry ingredients together into a cohesive dough.
- Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, mix until a stiff dough forms. Ensure that every oat and flour particle is coated with the buttery syrup mixture. The dough should be sticky but firm enough to press into the pan.
- Press the Dough Into Pan: Transfer the dough into your prepared 13×9-inch baking pan. Use your hands or the back of a spoon to evenly press the dough across the bottom of the pan. Aim for a uniform layer so the bars bake evenly. Don’t worry if it feels slightly sticky — that’s normal.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans and 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar. Mix them together so the sugar lightly coats the pecans. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pressed dough in the pan, then gently press down so the nuts adhere slightly to the base.
- Drizzle Maple Syrup: Carefully drizzle 1/3 cup of maple syrup evenly over the pecan topping. The syrup will help the topping caramelize slightly during baking, creating a glossy, flavorful finish. Use a spoon to spread it if necessary, ensuring full coverage without pooling too much.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 38 minutes. Check the bars around 30 minutes to ensure the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft. The aroma of toasted oats, maple, and pecans should fill your kitchen — a good sign the bars are perfectly baked.
- Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This is crucial for them to set properly so they hold their shape when cut. Cooling usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on room temperature.
- Slice and Serve: After cooling, use a sharp knife to cut the pan into 16 evenly sized bars. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices. The bars are now ready to serve as a delicious snack, breakfast treat, or dessert.
- Storage and Enjoyment: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Enjoy them on-the-go, with a cup of coffee, or as a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up!
Notes
- For best texture, use a combination of quick and old-fashioned oats — quick oats help the bars stick together, while old-fashioned oats add a pleasant chew.
- If you prefer a slightly softer bar, reduce the flour by 2–3 tablespoons.
- The shredded coconut is optional but adds a subtle nutty flavor and extra texture; you can omit it if desired.
- Make sure to slightly cool the melted butter before mixing with the egg to prevent curdling.
- Press the dough firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold their shape when cut.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Bars
One of the secrets to achieving the perfect Maple Pecan Oatmeal Bars is balancing moisture with structure.
Melted butter combined with maple syrup creates a naturally sweet and sticky dough that holds together beautifully.
Toasting the pecans lightly before adding them on top enhances their flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
Another tip is to allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this step is crucial for neat slices and optimal texture.
Using a mix of quick and old-fashioned oats gives the bars a chewy but structured consistency, making them satisfying with every bite.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Serve them as a mid-morning snack with a cup of coffee or tea for a wholesome boost.
They also make a delicious breakfast on the go when paired with yogurt or a smoothie.
For dessert, try warming a bar slightly and topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
They are perfect for lunchboxes, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat during fall and winter seasons.
Storage Tips for Long Freshness
To keep your bars fresh and maintain their texture, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
If you live in a warm climate, refrigerating them can extend freshness up to a week.
For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months — simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Avoid storing them in a humid area to prevent the pecans from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey can be substituted for maple syrup in equal amounts. It will provide a slightly different sweetness but still yield sticky, chewy bars.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This maintains the same chewy texture and flavor.
3. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts work well. Toasting them lightly before adding enhances their flavor and crunch.
4. How do I make these bars less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar in the dough by 2–3 tablespoons or use a lighter hand with the topping sugar.
You can also opt for pure maple syrup without added sugars.
5. Can I prepare these bars in advance?
Yes! The bars can be made a day or two ahead, making them great for meal prep.
They hold their texture well and even taste better as the flavors meld overnight.
