Dessert

Oat Clusters

A favorite from Health Science magazine. Make multiple batches and freeze extras to take on road trips or outdoor adventures.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed OR ¼ cup applesauce
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 2 ripe bananas
• 6-8 Deglet dates, pitted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ½ cups nuts (such as almonds or walnuts; optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  In a small bowl, stir together the flax seed with 4-5 tablespoons water and set aside.  If using apple sauce, skip this step.  Place the rolled oats into a medium bowl and set aside.

Add the bananas, dates, cinnamon and vanilla to a food processor and blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.  Add the nuts, if using, and pulse a few times to break them up.

Add the flax-water mixture (or applesauce) and the banana mixture to the bowl of oats and stir well. 

Use your clean hands to make 1-2 inch balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flatten a little.  Bake 20 minutes.  Flip the clusters over and bake for 10-20 minutes more (shorter for a softer finish, and longer for a dryer finish). Enjoy!

By Lifestyle Medical Lifestyle Medical is a primary care practice with a mission to ignite hope for a healthy, flourishing life. We are dedicated to empowering you to make healthier lifestyle choices, so you can reduce medications, restore energy and regain freedom from chronic diseases.