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To enhance the flavor and texture of your Crunchy Apple Oat Bites, incorporating nuts and dried fruit is a game-changer. Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans add a delightful crunch and provide healthy fats, while dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots introduce a natural sweetness. These additions not only elevate the taste profile but also enrich the nutritional value of the bites.

Healthy Apple Oat Bites

Discover the joy of healthy snacking with Crunchy Apple Oat Bites! These delicious bites combine rolled oats, fresh apples, and a hint of sweetness, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare, they're packed with nutrients, providing energy for busy days. Customize with nuts, dried fruits, or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast, afternoon treat, or on-the-go snack. Dive into a world of flavor and nourishment!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 medium apple, cored and finely grated (for optimal sweetness, choose a Fuji or Honeycrisp)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (use maple syrup for a vegan option)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or your choice)

1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries are excellent choices)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup almond butter (optional for additional creaminess and flavor)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the bites from sticking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the oats.

      Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the grated apple, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and almond butter (if using). Whisk these ingredients until smooth and well combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix everything together until the oats are thoroughly coated and the overall mixture becomes sticky.

          Add Nuts and Dried Fruit: Gently fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring that these additions are evenly distributed in the mixture.

            Shape the Bites: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, roughly 1-2 inches in diameter. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even baking.

              Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites turn a lovely golden brown and feel firm to the touch.

                Cool and Store: After baking, remove the tray from the oven and let the bites cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Enjoy: These Crunchy Apple Oat Bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them an ideal snack, breakfast boost, or healthy dessert option!

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 bites

                      Presentation Tips: Serve these bites on a rustic wooden board or in a small basket lined with parchment paper for a charming touch. You can also drizzle honey on top or sprinkle with additional cinnamon for extra flair. Enjoy!