Sourdough Breakfast Oatmeal Jam Bars: A Hearty, Sweet Start to Your Day!

Mornings can be hectic, and finding a nourishing yet delightful breakfast isn’t always easy. Enter 🍞🌾 Sourdough Breakfast Oatmeal Jam Bars🌾🍓—a perfect blend of tangy sourdough discard, hearty oats, and luscious fruit jam. Not only do these bars taste amazing, but they also reduce food waste by using sourdough discard! Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or pack them for a midday snack, these bars are a must-try. Let’s dive into the goodness!

Why You’ll Love These Bars

• Wholesome Ingredients – Made with oats, honey, and fruit jam, these bars offer natural sweetness and nutrition.
• Reduces Waste – A creative way to use your sourdough discard instead of tossing it out.
• Easy to Make – No fancy techniques needed—just mix, layer, and bake!
• Customizable – Swap out jams, add nuts, or experiment with different flavors.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy all week!

Equipment

• Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts.
• 8×8-inch baking dish – The perfect size for thick and chewy bars.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes removal easy.
• Spatula or spoon – For spreading layers evenly.
• Sharp knife – For cutting bars cleanly.
• Cooling rack – Helps bars cool evenly and quickly.

What You will Need & Alternatives

• 🍞 1 cup sourdough discard (Alternative: Greek yogurt or applesauce for moisture and tangy flavor)
• 🥣 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (Alternative: Quick oats for a softer texture)
• 🌾 1 cup all-purpose flour (Alternative: Gluten-free flour blend for a GF version)
• 🍯 1/2 cup honey (Alternative: Maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan option)
• 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (Alternative: Coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 🥄 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Helps the bars rise and maintain a chewy texture)
• 🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavors and balances sweetness)
• 🍓 3/4 cup fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your choice) (Alternative: Nut butter for a richer, protein-packed bar)
• 🌰 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) (Alternative: Seeds like chia or sunflower seeds for extra crunch)

Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
• Grease the parchment paper lightly to prevent sticking.

2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
• This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and avoids clumping.

3️⃣ Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

• In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sourdough discard, and honey until smooth.
• Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
• If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or plant-based milk to help bind it.

4️⃣ Layer the Base:

• Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
• Pressing it firmly ensures the bars hold together after baking.

5️⃣ Spread the Filling:

• Evenly spread the fruit jam over the oat base.
• If the jam is too thick, slightly warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to spread.
• Ensure you reach the edges for a balanced bite in every bar!

6️⃣ Add the Topping:

• Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the jam layer.
• Lightly press it down to help it stick together while baking, but don’t compact it too much—you want some texture on top!

7️⃣ Bake to Perfection:

• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
• Look for a golden-brown top and slightly crisp edges.
• If using nuts, check that they’re lightly toasted.

8️⃣ Cool Completely:

• Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
• Cutting too soon may cause them to fall apart, so patience is key!
• For quicker cooling, place the pan on a wire rack.

9️⃣ Slice and Serve:

• Lift the parchment paper to remove the bars from the pan.
• Use a sharp knife to cut into 12 even bars.
• If you prefer cleaner edges, chill them in the fridge for 15 minutes before slicing.

🔟 Store for Later:

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Bars

• Choose Your Jam Wisely – Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam work beautifully, but don’t be afraid to mix and match!
• Let Them Cool – Resist the temptation to cut them too soon—letting them cool helps them set properly.
• Go Nutty! – Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans add a delightful crunch and boost protein content.
• Sweeten to Taste – If you prefer a sweeter bite, drizzle extra honey on top before baking.
• Make it Vegan – Swap the butter for coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey.

How to Store

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
• To freeze, wrap bars individually in parchment paper and place them in a zip-top bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy frozen bars, let them thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

How to Serve it?

• Enjoy warm or cold – These bars taste great straight from the fridge or warmed slightly.
• Pair with a hot drink – Serve with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast.
• Top with yogurt – Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
• Drizzle with honey or nut butter – Enhance flavor with an extra touch of sweetness.
• Serve with fresh fruit – Berries, banana slices, or apple wedges make a delicious addition.

If you’re looking for a simple, scrumptious way to use up your sourdough discard, these 🍞🌾 Sourdough Breakfast Oatmeal Jam Bars🌾🍓 are the answer! They’re nutritious, easy to make, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, they make the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack. Try them today and let us know—what’s your favorite jam filling? 🍓🥜🍯

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