Oatmeal nougat (butter-free) just as delicious and easy

It’s great you’re looking for a butter-free oatmeal nougat recipe! This can be a delicious and healthier alternative. Here’s a general approach and some ingredients you can use:

Key Ingredients and Considerations:

• Oatmeal:
  • Rolled oats are typically used for their texture.
• Sweetener:
  • Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar can replace sugar.
  • Dates blended into a paste also work well for a natural sweetener.
• Nut Butter:
  • This is a great butter substitute, adding richness and binding the ingredients.
  • Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter are all good options.
• Liquid:
  • A small amount of plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) or water may be needed to adjust consistency.
• Nuts and Seeds:
  • Add chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans) and seeds (sunflower, pumpkin) for texture and flavor.
• Flavorings:
  • Vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder can enhance the taste.
  • Dried fruits are also a great addition.

Basic Recipe Framework:

Here’s a framework you can adapt:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)
• 1/2 cup honey, maple syrup, or date paste
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (or water, if needed)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts and seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Spices (cinnamon, etc.) or cocoa powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a saucepan, heat the nut butter and sweetener over low heat until melted and smooth.
   • Stir in the plant-based milk (or water) and vanilla extract.
2. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Remove from heat and stir in the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and any spices or cocoa powder.
   • Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape:
   • Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish.
   • You can also roll the mixture into small balls.
4. Chill:
   • Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
5. Cut and Serve:
   • Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Tips and Variations:

• Texture:
  • For a chewier nougat, use quick-cooking oats.
  • For a crunchier texture, toast the oats and nuts before adding them.
• Sweetness:
  • Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking.
• Flavor:
  • Experiment with different nut butter and flavor combinations.
  • Adding dried fruits like cranberries, or raisins is also a great idea.

Enjoy your delicious and butter-free oatmeal nougat!