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Nutty Squirrel Bars Recipe

Nutty Squirrel Bars Recipe

Buttery oat bars loaded with honeyed mixed nuts and a sprinkle of chocolate. Crisp edges, chewy center—perfect for gifting or snacking.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 0.75 cup light brown sugar, packed for the crust
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt for the crust
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter, melted slightly cooled; for the crust
  • 1.5 tsp vanilla extract for the crust
  • 2 cup mixed nuts, roughly chopped use a blend like pecans, walnuts, almonds, cashews
  • 0.75 cup mini chocolate chips semisweet
  • 0.33 cup honey or use maple syrup
  • 0.5 cup light brown sugar, packed for the topping
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter for the topping
  • 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp flaky sea salt for finishing

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment, leaving overhang.
  • Whisk flour, oats, packed brown sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt in a bowl.
  • Stir in melted butter and vanilla until the mixture forms damp, sandy crumbs.
  • Press the crust firmly into the pan. Bake 10 minutes to set.
  • Simmer honey, packed brown sugar, heavy cream, and 3 tbsp butter in a small pot for 2–3 minutes, stirring until glossy.
  • Fold in chopped mixed nuts and cinnamon until coated.
  • Scatter mini chocolate chips over the warm crust. Spoon the nut mixture on top and spread evenly.
  • Bake 18–22 minutes, until the topping bubbles and the edges are golden.
  • Cool completely in the pan. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, then chill 30 minutes for cleaner slices.
  • Lift out by the parchment and cut into 16 bars.

Notes

Swap honey with maple syrup for a deeper caramel note, or add a handful of dried cherries for a sweet-tart pop. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or refrigerate up to a week; they also freeze well for 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Nutty Squirrel Bars Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.