These crispy, protein-rich oatmeal sticks are a perfect healthy snack that combines the goodness of whole grains and seeds. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these nutritious treats that are perfect for breakfast, snacking, or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 200g (2 cups) old-fashioned oat flakes
- 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 250g (1 cup) cottage cheese (any fat content) or plain yogurt
Seed Mix:
- 30g (¼ cup) pumpkin seeds
- 20g (2½ tablespoons) sesame seeds
- 30g (¼ cup) sunflower seeds
- 10g (1 tablespoon) flax seeds
- Vegetable oil for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mix all seeds in a small bowl and set aside
Making the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine oat flakes, baking powder, and salt
- Add cottage cheese and mix until well combined
- Knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive dough
- If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes
Shaping and Baking
- Divide the dough into 12-14 equal portions
- Roll each portion into a stick shape
- Brush each stick with vegetable oil
- Roll the sticks in the seed mixture, pressing gently to adhere
- Place on prepared baking sheet
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
Nutritional Information (per stick)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Iron: 1.2mg
- Calcium: 80mg
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12-14 sticks
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use old-fashioned oats rather than quick oats for better texture
- Don’t overmix the dough to maintain a light texture
- Space the sticks evenly on the baking sheet for even browning
- Allow to cool completely for the crispiest texture
- For extra crunch, flip sticks halfway through baking
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or quark
- Experiment with different seed combinations
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for savory versions
- Include dried fruits for a sweeter variation
- Use different spices like caraway or cumin for variety
Common FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
How long do they stay fresh?
They keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze these sticks?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.
Why are my sticks not crunchy?
Make sure to bake until golden brown and cool completely.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage Options
- Room Temperature: 5 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 3 months in freezer bags
- To maintain crispness, store with a paper towel
Reheating Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Heat for 5 minutes to restore crispness
- Allow to cool before serving
These oatmeal sticks are perfect for meal prep and make a fantastic healthy alternative to traditional bread sticks. They’re high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats from the seeds, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious snackers!
