Get ready to revolutionize your breakfast routine with these irresistible Apple Spice Baked Oatmeal Bars that are about to become your new morning obsession! Imagine waking up to a warm, fragrant dish that combines the comforting sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the hearty goodness of oats - all baked into perfectly portioned, grab-and-go bars that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or a parent looking for a nutritious breakfast solution, these bars are your delicious secret weapon to start the day right!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: Serves 12
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and applesauce until fully combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) into the mixture. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. These bars can be enjoyed as a breakfast option or a healthy snack throughout the day.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Choose the Right Oats: Use rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) for the best texture - they provide the perfect balance of softness and structure.
- Apple Selection Matters: Opt for firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that will hold their shape and add a nice flavor contrast.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars.
- Customize Your Bars: Experiment with mix-ins like dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or different types of nuts to make the recipe your own.
- Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is crucial - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs when the bars are perfectly baked.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These bars freeze beautifully for up to a month, making meal prep a breeze!
- Serving Suggestion: Warm slightly and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
