Save A playful, colorful treat featuring chewy homemade gummies, crispy freeze-dried candies, and a wholesome oat base, perfect for snack lovers and candy fans alike.
When I first experimented with this mash-up of gummies and freeze-dried candies, my kitchen turned into a candy lab and my friends could not resist sampling every step. These snack bars are always a hit at potlucks and movie nights, and the playful colors make them an instant favorite with kids.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: 2 cups, for a hearty base
- Almond butter (or peanut butter): 1/2 cup, creamy binding
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/3 cup, natural sweetener
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup, richness and texture
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp, flavor enhancer
- Salt: Pinch, balances taste
- 100% fruit juice (apple, berry, or orange): 1 cup, for gummies
- Unflavored gelatin: 2 tbsp, sets the gummies
- Honey or agave syrup: 2 or 3 tbsp, sweetness for gummies
- Freeze-dried fruit (strawberries, raspberries): 1 cup, topping, lightly crushed
- Freeze-dried candy (Skittles, marshmallows, or similar): 1 cup, topping, crushed or chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Snack Bar Base:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, honey, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Press evenly into the prepared pan and refrigerate.
- Make Gummies:
- Pour fruit juice into a small saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over juice and let sit for 5 minutes. Heat gently, stirring, until dissolved. Stir in honey, pour into parchment-lined dish, chill 45 to 60 minutes until set.
- Cube Gummies:
- Once set, cut gummies into small cubes.
- Add Toppings:
- Remove oat base from fridge. Sprinkle with homemade gummy cubes, freeze-dried fruits, and freeze-dried candy. Press toppings gently.
- Final Chill:
- Chill entire pan for an additional 10 or 15 minutes to set.
- Cut Into Bars:
- Lift out using parchment paper and slice into bars.
Save My cousin brought these snack bars to a picnic last summer and they disappeared in minutes. Everyone was amazed at the chewy homemade gummies and the crispy topping.
Required Tools
Baking pan (8x8-inch), parchment paper, large and small mixing bowls, saucepan, spatula, and a sharp knife for slicing.
Allergen Information
Contains nuts and dairy unless substituted. Use sunflower seed butter for nut-free, coconut oil for dairy-free, and check store-bought toppings for other allergens.
Nutritional Information (per bar)
Calories: 170, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 3 g. Nutrition may vary depending on candy selection and ingredient swaps.
Save Serve these snack bars chilled for the best texture. They are a fun treat for parties, after-school snacks, or creative homemade gifts.
Kitchen Guide
- → What kind of fruit juice works best for gummies?
Clear juices like apple, berry, or orange are ideal. Opt for 100% juice for best flavor and natural color.
- → Can I make these bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Swap almond butter for sunflower seed or tahini for a nut-free alternative without sacrificing texture.
- → Is there a vegan version?
Gelatin is required for gummies, but vegan gelatin alternatives can be used. Substitute butter with coconut oil.
- → Are freeze-dried candies necessary?
You can customize toppings. Use any freeze-dried fruit, nuts, or omit candies for a healthier bar.
- → How long do the bars stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Refrigeration helps maintain chewiness and crunch.
- → Is honey safe for all ages?
Honey is not suitable for infants under 1 year. Consider maple syrup or agave for younger children.