Prairie Brewed Bars
Introduction to Prairie Brewed Bars
The Prairie Brewed Bars, inspired by the rustic charm of Midwestern America, combine the rich essence of coffee with the wholesome taste of grains found across the prairie lands. Originating in local culinary traditions, these bars offer a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist - perfect for breakfast or as an energizing snack.
The historical roots of this dish can be traced back to the pioneers who settled the prairies of America. In their quest for nutritious and portable food options, they often used locally sourced ingredients resulting in a variety of hearty, delicious foods. Prairie Brewed Bars pay homage to these inventive culinary customs, bringing them to the contemporary kitchen with added benefits of caffeine and rich flavors.
Ingredients
- Rolled Oats - 2 cups
- Brewed Coffee - 1 cup
- Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup
- Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
- Honey - 1/4 cup
- Vanilla Extract - 1 tsp
- Wheat Flour - 1 cup
- Baking Powder - 1 tsp
- Baking Soda - 1/4 tsp
- Cinnamon - 1 tsp
- Salt - 1/4 tsp
- Dark Chocolate Chips - 1 cup
- Chopped Nuts (pecans or walnuts) - 1/2 cup
Optional Ingredients
- Dried Cranberries - 1/2 cup for added texture and tanginess
Preparation
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature when it's time to bake. As you gather your ingredients, take this moment to appreciate the rustic simplicity each element offers – from the aromatic allure of brewed coffee to the earthy grains of rolled oats.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently until they are thoroughly mixed. This dry mixture sets the foundation for your bars, providing them with a wholesome and hardy texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In another bowl, mix the brewed coffee, brown sugar, melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until the sugar dissolves completely and you have a smooth, wet mixture. The brewed coffee infuses the bars with a robust flavor profile reminiscent of the dark soil and endless skies of the prairie lands.
Combining Ingredients and Baking
Step 4: Blend the Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring to combine. Be careful not to overmix; you want to retain some texture in the bars. Once combined, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts. For an optional twist, add dried cranberries here for added flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure you don't overbake these bars as they can dry out quickly. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center - it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions
Step 6: Cooling and Cutting
Let the dish cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before cutting into bars. While you wait, the delightful aroma fills your kitchen, echoing the comforting warmth found in a prairie setting.
Step 7: Serving
Enjoy these Prairie Brewed Bars fresh, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing cold brew for the ultimate prairie-inspired breakfast or snack experience.
Conclusion
The Prairie Brewed Bars are more than just a recipe; they are an experience that blends history, flavor, and the essence of prairie life into each bite. Whether you're a lover of coffee-infused treats or searching for a rustic treat that offers both nourishment and nostalgia, these bars won't disappoint.