These apple cinnamon oatmeal bars are the perfect blend of chewy and sweet! Packed with warm spices and bits of juicy apples, they’re a tasty treat for any time of day.
I love how easy they are to make! Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy a delicious snack that fills the house with a wonderful aroma. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These give the bars their chewy texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free rolled oats, which are widely available in stores.
All-purpose flour: I usually stick to regular flour, but whole wheat flour can be a great substitute. It adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the bars.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and a nice caramel flavor. You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option or even honey or maple syrup if you prefer a liquid sweetener.
Apples: Granny Smith apples work great for this recipe due to their tartness. If you can’t find them, any sweet-tart apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji will also work well. You can even combine apple varieties for added depth!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt levels. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Bars Stay Chewy?
Maintaining a chewy texture in your oatmeal bars is all about balancing moisture and baking time. Here are some tips to help you achieve chewy perfection:
- Don’t over-bake! Keep an eye on them and take them out as soon as the top is golden. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.
- Using applesauce adds moisture. Make sure to fold it in gently with the apple chunks to distribute it evenly.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and helps maintain their chewy texture.
With these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly chewy apple cinnamon oatmeal bars that everyone will love!
The Chewiest Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
Fruits:
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped or grated (preferably a tart apple like Granny Smith)
Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for drizzle)
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 to 35 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour for the entire process, including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until they’re nicely blended. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fluffy.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
5. Fold in Apples:
Now, fold in the chopped or grated apple along with the applesauce. Make sure the apple pieces are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Press Mixture into Pan:
Take the mixture and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This helps the bars hold together well.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You want the top to be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs (not completely clean).
8. Cool and Cut:
Once done, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important for helping them set. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.
9. Optional Drizzle:
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top of the bars before serving for a lovely touch of sweetness!
Enjoy your chewy apple cinnamon oatmeal bars with a comforting cup of tea or coffee! They’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats, as instant oats can make the bars too mushy. Rolled oats provide the perfect chewy texture that you want in these bars!
How Should I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
Can I Substitute the Apple with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! You can use other fruits like pears, mashed bananas, or even berries. Just make sure to adjust the moisture content if using larger or juicier fruits, like berries, to avoid overly wet bars.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Let it sit for a few minutes to activate before adding it to the wet ingredients.
