Easy Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares

If you’re a fan of the delightful taste of Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares but want a homemade version, you’ve come to the right place. These deliciously soft-baked treats combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with wholesome oats for a snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these oatmeal squares are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Whether you eat them on their own or pair them with yogurt and fruit, they provide energy without compromising on taste. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through this simple recipe while sharing tips for perfecting your homemade creation. Get ready to enjoy a chewy and flavorful treat that rivals the store-bought version!

Why You’ll Love This Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Choose whole rolled oats for a chewy texture that holds up well in baking.
• All-Purpose Flour: Regular flour works best for texture; feel free to experiment with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Baking Powder: This ingredient helps the squares rise while keeping them soft and tender.
• Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon to infuse warmth and flavor into each bite.
• Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds sweetness along with a hint of caramel flavor that complements the oats perfectly.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in the recipe without making it salty.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together while providing moisture for a soft texture.
• Milk: Use any milk of choice—dairy or plant-based—for moisture; it also helps bring all ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor that makes these squares irresistible.

How to Make Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish using a spatula. Ensure it’s level across the surface.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden around the edges. Allow cooling in the pan before slicing into squares.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Add-ins Optional: Feel free to mix in nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
• Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these oatmeal squares warm topped with yogurt or fresh fruit for a fulfilling meal.

How to Serve Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

This Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the squares.
• Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote enhances the oatmeal squares’ flavor with fruity goodness.
• Nut Butter: Spreading nut butter on top provides a protein boost and a delightful nutty flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the oat mixture the night before. Simply combine the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, mix them together and proceed with baking as directed.
• Storing: Store leftover Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.
• Reheating: To reheat, place a square on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-10 minutes for a crispy texture.

Suggestions for Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

Use Unsalted Butter for Perfect Texture

Using unsalted butter is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares. Salted butter can alter the flavor balance, making the squares taste too salty. Unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt added to the recipe, ensuring a more balanced sweetness. When creaming butter and sugars together, ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easy blending. This will help create a light and fluffy mixture, which contributes to the soft texture of your oatmeal squares.

Don’t Skip the Oats

Oats are the star ingredient in Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares. Skipping or substituting oats can dramatically change the texture and flavor of your squares. Use rolled oats instead of quick oats for a chewier consistency. Rolled oats hold their shape better during baking and provide a heartier texture. Additionally, consider using old-fashioned oats for an even richer taste. Incorporating oats not only enhances flavor but also adds fiber, making these squares a healthier snack option.

Measure Ingredients Accurately

Accurate measurement of ingredients is critical when making Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares. Too much flour can lead to dry squares, while too little will result in a gooey mess. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for dry ingredients, leveling them off with a straight edge for precision. For best results, weigh your ingredients if possible; this eliminates guesswork and ensures consistency every time you make these delectable treats.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing your batter can lead to tough oatmeal squares, which is not what you want in this recipe. Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones, stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay; they will bake out during cooking. The goal is to keep the batter as light as possible to maintain that soft-baked texture that makes these oatmeal squares so delightful. Remember, gentle folding helps keep air in the mixture.

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FAQs

What makes Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares special?

Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares stand out due to their unique combination of flavors and textures. The soft-baked consistency contrasts nicely with the warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar notes that evoke comfort and nostalgia. They serve as a perfect snack or breakfast option for those looking for something wholesome yet indulgent. Packed with oats, these squares provide essential nutrients while satisfying cravings without excessive guilt.

How can I store these oatmeal squares?

Storing your Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares properly ensures they stay fresh longer. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last even longer, consider freezing individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before serving for that freshly baked experience.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares is their versatility. You can easily customize them by adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch or incorporating dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins to enhance flavor profiles. Additionally, consider swapping out brown sugar for honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for a different sweetness level while retaining that soft-baked quality.

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Are these oatmeal squares healthy?

Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares offer several health benefits when made with wholesome ingredients like oats and unsalted butter. Oats are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer. By controlling sugar levels and adding nutritious extras like nuts or seeds, you can create a well-balanced snack option suitable for various diets. However, moderation is key; enjoy them as part of a balanced diet for optimal health benefits.

Conclusion for Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares

In summary, making Nature Valley Copycat Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares requires attention to detail in ingredient selection and preparation techniques. Ensure you use unsalted butter and rolled oats to achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures while avoiding common mistakes like overmixing or inaccurate measurements. These delicious oatmeal squares not only satisfy sweet cravings but also contribute positively to your diet when made thoughtfully. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later—either way, they’re sure to be a hit