There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of apples and oats. It’s the kind of pairing that evokes memories of cozy mornings and home-baked goodness. These apple oat bars capture that essence perfectly, offering a delightful blend of natural sweetness and hearty flavors in a form that’s easy to enjoy on the go. The soft, chewy texture of these bars, along with the subtle warmth of spices like cinnamon and ginger, makes them an instant favorite for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.

What makes these bars truly special is their star ingredient: oats.

Oats are a nutritional powerhouse, renowned for their numerous health benefits. They are packed with dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, thus promoting heart health. Oats also have a low glycemic index, meaning they provide a slow and steady release of energy, keeping you fuller for longer and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent choice not just for those looking to manage their weight, but also for anyone seeking to sustain energy levels throughout the day.

In addition to being a great source of fiber, oats are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining bone health, supporting the immune system, and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, oats contain unique antioxidants known as avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to lower blood pressure.

Incorporating oats into your regular diet can contribute to better digestion, enhanced heart health, and improved energy levels. With these Apple Oat Bars, you get all the nutritional benefits of oats in a delicious and convenient form. Whether you enjoy them as part of a balanced breakfast, a midday snack, or a wholesome treat, these bars are a delicious way to support your health and satisfy your cravings.

So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutritional benefits, these Apple Oat Bars are a fantastic option. They’re simple, nutritious, and sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 large apple (130 g)
• 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats
• ½ cup (110 g) applesauce
• 2 tbsp. coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. maple syrup
• 30 g dried cranberries
• ½ tsp. baking powder
• ¼ tsp. cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. ginger powder
• ¼ tsp. pumpkin pie spice

Directions

1. Start by cleaning the large apple thoroughly and then finely grating it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated apple with all the remaining ingredients: rolled oats, applesauce, coconut oil, maple syrup, dried cranberries, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger powder, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
4. Prepare your mini cake or mini loaf pans by brushing each cup with a little bit of oil. Line them with parchment paper to make removal after baking easier.
5. Spoon equal amounts of the mixture into each prepared cup. Use the back of a tablespoon to press the mixture gently, ensuring it spreads evenly and the surface is smooth.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bars are firm and lightly browned on top.
8. Once baked, carefully transfer the bars onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 Bars

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

• Energy: 142 calories
• Protein: 2.35 g
• Fat: 5.57 g
• Carbohydrates: 22.45 g
• Fiber: 2.2 g

Storage Recommendations

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
• These bars are perfect for breakfast on the go or as a midday snack.