Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and satisfying snack, perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert. Soft, chewy, and packed with warm apple and cinnamon flavors, they are easy to make and ideal for on-the-go mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of fall with a quick, no-fuss prep. Using wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and almond butter, these bars are naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and customizable. They are perfect for meal prep, packed lunches, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup applesauce
⅓ cup almond butter
1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water)
2 tablespoons almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup maple syrup
1 cup rolled oats
1¼ cup oat flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chopped apples

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the flax egg by combining 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to gel.

3. In a medium bowl, mix together the oat flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, and baking powder.

4. In a separate bowl, combine applesauce, almond butter, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg.

5. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

6. Fold in ⅔ cup of chopped apples.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with the remaining ⅓ cup chopped apples.

8. Bake for 25 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 9 bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 squares
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.

• Use cinnamon chips or chocolate chips to create a sweeter version.

• Swap apples for pears or grated zucchini for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. These bars can be lightly warmed in the microwave or oven before serving. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—wrap individually or store in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, using a flax egg and plant-based milk makes this recipe fully vegan.

Can I use regular eggs instead of flax eggs?

Yes, 1 regular egg can replace the flax egg.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of oat flour?

Yes, though oat flour keeps the bars gluten-free and adds a chewy texture.

Can I use fresh grated apples instead of chopped apples?

Yes, grated apples will also work, but they may release more moisture, slightly affecting baking time.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free spread.

Can I increase the sweetness?

Yes, add a bit more maple syrup or toss in a few chocolate chips.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. They hold well in the fridge and are great for breakfasts or snacks on-the-go.

Can I add spices like nutmeg or ginger?

Yes, a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice will enhance the fall flavors.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap individually or store in an airtight freezer-safe container.

How do I keep them from sticking to the pan?

Line the pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars are a versatile, healthy, and delicious snack or breakfast option. Quick to prepare and packed with warm, comforting flavors, they are perfect for busy mornings, packed lunches, or a sweet treat any time of day.