Apple & Oat Crumble Bars
Apple crumble bars are a lovely way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apple and oats, with a healthy twist! These bars are made from wholesome ingredients that bring together fiber, good fats, and natural sweetness, perfect for anyone seeking a balance of indulgence and nutrition.
The star of this recipe is the oat crumble base, made with rolled oats and oat flour, a fantastic source of whole grains that provide sustained energy. The apples add a naturally sweet flavor, while warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice infuse the bars with autumnal warmth. Plus, they’re sweetened with pure maple syrup and use butter to bring in that perfect crumbly texture without refined sugars.
Whether you’re grabbing one for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy dessert, these bars deliver on flavor and nutrients. But what makes oats so special? Oats are rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. They’re also a good source of complex carbohydrates, offering slow-releasing energy that keeps you feeling full and energized for longer periods. Incorporating oats into your regular diet can help with digestion, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support overall gut health. That’s why oats should definitely have a place in your weekly routine, not only are they versatile, but they also offer an abundance of health benefits.
These Apple & Oat Crumble Bars are simple to make, nourishing, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or baking a wholesome treat for friends and family, these bars are sure to satisfy!
Ingredients
For the oat crumble part:
- 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats
- ½ cup (45 g) oat flour
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp cinnamon powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 60 g butter, softened
For the apple part:
- 3 large apples (520 g), shredded
- ⅛ tsp cinnamon powder
- ⅛ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 30 g chopped almonds
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8.5-inch x 8.5-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix rolled oats, oat flour, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. Add softened butter and maple syrup, and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. If desired, use your hands to incorporate the ingredients evenly. Chill the crumble in the fridge while preparing the apples.
- Clean the apples, core them, and shred them using a hand grater.
- In a separate bowl, combine the grated apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup. Mix thoroughly to coat the apples with the spice and syrup.
- Take ⅔ of the chilled oat crumble mixture and press it evenly into the prepared pan to create a smooth base layer.
- Spread the grated apple mixture evenly over the oat base.
- Mix the chopped almonds into the remaining oat crumble. Spread this final crumble layer over the apples, pressing gently to form a top layer.
- Bake the bars for 50 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool completely before cutting into bars.
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 15 minutes chilling in the fridge)
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Servings: Makes 9 bars
Nutritional Information (Per 1 Bar)
- Energy: 222 calories
- Protein: 5.16 g
- Fat: 8.89 g
- Carbohydrates: 32.5 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage Tips
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months, just thaw them out when you’re ready to enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these apple bars as a grab-and-go breakfast, a nutritious snack, or a comforting dessert after dinner.
Additional Information
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free Friendly (if using certified gluten-free oats)