No bake oat and seed bars

You can make a whole tray of these oat bars for a similar amount of money that a small pack of bars costs in the supermarket.

They’re great for breakfast on the go, or for whenever you need a protein boost, and you can add in your favourite mix ins to make the recipe your own.

This recipe makes 12 large bars, or 24 square treats.

The basic recipe requires just five ingredients. Adapt it with your choice of seeds and nuts, fresh or dried chopped fruits, chocolate chips, spices or other mix-ins. Try dipping into plain or milk chocolate, or drizzle over the chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Basic recipe:

1. Oil and line a large baking tin with baking paper (we used 28 x 18cm tin).
2. Melt the peanut butter and syrup together in the microwave or in a pan on the cooker and stir until smooth.
3. Put the oats and seeds into a large bowl, add the peanut butter mixture and stir together.
4. Press into the prepared tin and spread evenly.
5. Chill in the fridge until set hard, then cut into squares or fingers.

Store in the fridge or in a container with a tight lid.

Ideas for mix ins:

Chopped or grated apple and cinnamon

Dried bananas and chocolate chips

Chopped apricots

Frozen raspberries and desiccated coconut

Cranberries and mixed spice

Chopped nuts and chocolate chips

Chopped apple and raisins sultanas

Grated carrot and chopped walnuts

Share your oat bar creations with us on Instagram @hamlynsoats

Liz Ashworth is a Scottish food writer and food product developer, who has a particular interest in using and promoting local products.

She is the author of Teach the Bairns, a pioneering series of traditional Scottish cookery books for beginners of all ages, and writes food columns in various publications, and coordinates the food programme at the annual Orkney International Science Festival. Orkney Spirit illustrated by Selena Kuzman was published in 2010 to celebrate her love of and family connection with the Orkney islands.

Liz’s other books include The Book of Bere, The Chain Bridge Honey Bible, The William Shearer Tattie Bible and her latest title, The Scottish Baking Bible, published by Birlinn which is available now.

The book features 50 recipes from across Scotland arranged by theme – Bannocks, Breads and Scones; Biscuits; Tarts and Traybakes; and Cakes and Wee Fancies.

All are graded according to the level of complexity, although none are difficult, making it ideal for bakers of all abilities to explore this glorious part of Scotland’s culinary heritage.