Looking for a tasty snack that’s both easy and healthy? These Savory Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars are your new go-to! Packed with wholesome ingredients and simple to make, I’ll guide you through each step. Whether you want a grab-and-go breakfast or a sweet treat, these bars fit the bill. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
These main ingredients come together to make a hearty base. The rolled oats provide fiber and texture. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and keeps the bars wholesome. Brown sugar offers a rich sweetness, while applesauce keeps them moist.
Optional Ingredients and Customizations
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
These optional ingredients add crunch and more flavor. Nuts like walnuts or pecans give a nice bite. Raisins can add a chewy sweetness that complements the apples.
Tools and Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowls
– Baking pan
– Whisk and spatula
You’ll need a few simple tools. Mixing bowls help combine the ingredients well. A baking pan is essential for shaping the bars. A whisk and spatula make mixing easy and thorough. With these tools, you’ll be ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Pan
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Mix the dry ingredients well until they are evenly combined.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 large beaten egg
– Make sure the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Combining Ingredients
– Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
– Stir gently until just combined.
– Fold in:
– 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples
– Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, and 1/4 cup raisins if you like.
– Mix until the apples and nuts are evenly distributed.
Baking the Bars
– Spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
– Press it down gently to compact the mixture.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
– A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Cool and Cut
– Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Once cool, cut into squares or rectangles. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture for your bars, pay attention to baking time. Start checking your bars at 25 minutes. If the edges turn golden brown, they are likely ready. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your bars are done.
Next, measuring ingredients is key. Use dry measuring cups for oats and flour. Level them off with a knife for accuracy. For liquids, use a clear measuring cup with measurements on the side. This helps you get the right amount.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, consider adding more spices. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can create extra warmth. You can also try adding vanilla extract for a nice touch.
Always use fresh apples. They add moisture and a crisp bite. If you can, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. This gives a balanced flavor to your bars.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal bars are great on their own. Yet, you can dress them up for fun! Try adding a dollop of yogurt on top. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup makes them sweeter.
You can also serve them with fresh fruit. Slices of banana or berries pair well with the flavors. Enjoy them as a snack or a quick breakfast!
Variations
Fruit Variations
You can use many types of apples in your bars. I love using sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. They add a nice flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith work too. You can mix and match to find your favorite.
Adding other fruits makes the bars even better. Consider adding berries for a burst of color and sweetness. Chopped bananas can also work well. They add moisture and a rich taste. Just be careful not to add too much fruit. This can change the texture of your bars.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap the whole wheat flour. Use almond flour or an all-purpose gluten-free blend instead. This change keeps the bars tasty and safe for gluten-free diets.
Want to make your bars vegan? You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For sweeteners, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.
Flavor Profile Changes
You can change the flavor of your bars easily. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet twist. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste. Peanut butter adds creaminess and protein. Swirl it in before baking for a nice surprise.
Experimenting with spices can also make a big difference. Try adding nutmeg or ginger for warmth. You can even add a pinch of cardamom for a new taste. Each spice brings its own unique flavor to the bars.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your apple cinnamon oatmeal bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. If you plan to eat them within a few days, room temperature is fine. For longer storage, the fridge is best.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing these bars is easy. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares or rectangles. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, simply take out a bar and leave it at room temperature for about an hour. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, the bars last about 3-4 days. In the fridge, they can stay fresh for a week. If you freeze them, they can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to follow the storage tips for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats. They cook faster and are more processed. They may make your bars softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give a heartier texture and more bite. I prefer rolled oats for this recipe.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make these bars vegan, replace the egg with flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Use a mix of one tablespoon of flaxseed meal and three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
If you don’t have applesauce, mashed bananas work well. You can also use pureed pumpkin or unsweetened yogurt. Each option adds moisture and flavor to the bars.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder. Start with a small amount, about 1/4 cup. Mix it in with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to add too much, or the bars may dry out.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges turn golden brown. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. If there’s wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
We covered how to make delicious apple cinnamon oatmeal bars. The main ingredients like rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and applesauce set a strong base. You can customize flavors with nuts, fruits, or sweeteners.
Use the right tools to mix and bake your bars for the best texture. Remember to store them properly to keep them fresh. Experiment with variations to suit your taste. Enjoy making these tasty and healthy bars whenever you want a sweet snack!
