Looking for a deliciously healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt? Look no further! These Healthy Apple Oatmeal Bars are not only easy to make, but they also pack a nutritional punch with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, fresh apples, and almond butter. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, these bars will have you coming back for more. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, you won't believe how simple it is to create this mouthwatering treat. Ready to dive into the recipe that will transform your snacking game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 9 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and diced apples, ensuring the apples are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, almond butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the oat and apple mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure all dry ingredients are completely coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 15-20 minutes.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 9 equal squares, ensuring clean, even cuts with a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This combination will enhance the overall taste of your bars.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet bar, start with 1/3 cup and add more if needed.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of chopped nuts for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
- Don’t Skip the Pressing: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, make sure to press it down firmly. This helps the bars hold together and prevents them from crumbling.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting. This step is crucial for achieving clean cuts and ensuring the bars hold their shape.
- Store Properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them and enjoy them chilled!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
