Go Back
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen. Enter the Warm & Cozy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars—a delightful blend of sweet, tart apples and aromatic cinnamon that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you're looking for a nutritious breakfast option or a wholesome snack to share with loved ones, these oat bars are the perfect solution. They are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars

Experience the delicious warmth of autumn with Warm & Cozy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars. This easy recipe combines sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon, offering a delightful snack or breakfast that’s nutritious and satisfying. Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy oats, these oat bars are not just tasty but also beneficial for your health. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, baking these bars creates cozy memories filled with delightful aromas and flavors. Enjoy a wholesome treat that's both comforting and nourishing!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)

1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter for a different flavor)

1/3 cup maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for added crunch)

1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional for sweetness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some excess paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spoon to mix thoroughly until the ingredients are smooth and well blended.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. If you're opting to include nuts and dried fruit, add them to this dry mixture, stirring to ensure they are well distributed.

        Merge Both Mixtures: Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the rolled oats are completely coated and all ingredients are evenly mixed.

          Fold in Diced Apples: Carefully fold the diced apples into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly dispersed to provide delightful bites of apple in each bar.

            Transfer to Baking Pan: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly using the back of a spatula. This helps the bars hold their shape while baking.

              Bake: Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are ready when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Slice: After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars to your liking.

                  Serve and Enjoy: These apple cinnamon oat bars can be enjoyed warm or chilled. They store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a perfectly convenient grab-and-go snack option!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 16 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Consider drizzling a little extra maple syrup or honey over the top before serving, or sprinkle a few extra nuts on top for a decorative touch.