Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars: A Healthy, Cozy Snack
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars combine the warmth of fall spices with the natural sweetness of apples and the hearty texture of oats, making them a perfect snack, breakfast, or on-the-go treat. Every bite is packed with comfort and nutrition—soft, chewy oats meet tender apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon that lingers delightfully on the palate.
Homemade oatmeal bars offer more than just flavor—they provide control over ingredients, allowing you to cut back on added sugars, swap in healthier oils, and add nuts or seeds for extra protein. Whether packed in a lunchbox, enjoyed with a cup of tea, or served as a post-workout snack, these bars are versatile, satisfying, and wholesome. Creating them at home turns a simple recipe into a delicious ritual that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and a sense of cozy indulgence.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups | 600 kcal |
| All-purpose flour (or whole wheat) | ½ cup | 220 kcal |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 0 kcal |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp | 12 kcal |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 kcal |
| Apples (peeled and chopped) | 2 medium | 190 kcal |
| Brown sugar | â…“ cup | 140 kcal |
| Honey or maple syrup | ¼ cup | 240 kcal |
| Coconut oil or unsalted butter | â…“ cup | 480 kcal |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 kcal |
| Chopped walnuts (optional) | ½ cup | 400 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until crumbly. Fold in the chopped apples and optional walnuts.
- Transfer to pan: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to enhance the autumn spice profile.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free oat flour.
- Protein boost: Mix in protein powder or more nuts/seeds.
- Lower sugar option: Reduce brown sugar or replace with mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce.
- Add mix-ins: Raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips add variety and texture.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutrition per bar (if cut into 12 bars):
| Nutrient | Amount per Bar (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–200 kcal |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 8–10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25–28 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars are rich in fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars from fruit, making them a filling and nutritious snack or breakfast option.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning snack.
- Serve alongside yogurt or smoothie bowls for a balanced breakfast.
- Pack them in lunchboxes or snack bags for on-the-go nutrition.
- Top with a light drizzle of nut butter for extra protein and flavor.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars: A Healthy, Cozy Snack
12 bars
servings10
minutes25
minutes180-200
kcalIngredients
2 cups rolled oats
½ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat)
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
â…“ cup brown sugar
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
â…“ cup coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until crumbly, then fold in chopped apples and optional walnuts.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing; this helps them hold together and develop the perfect chewy texture.
For extra chewiness, add a few tablespoons of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana to the batter.
FAQs
1. Are Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars healthy?
Yes! These bars are made with oats, apples, and minimal added sugar, providing fiber, healthy fats, and natural energy. Homemade versions are healthier than store-bought options since you can control the sweetness and ingredients.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free oats and substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.
3. How long do Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these bars last up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use fresh apples instead of peeled and chopped ones?
Yes, but peeling and chopping the apples ensures a softer texture and more even distribution. You can also grate the apples for a moister bar.
5. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars are a perfect blend of taste, texture, and nutrition. Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, they transform simple ingredients into a comforting and satisfying treat. Homemade bars allow you to control the ingredients and adjust flavors to your liking, making them healthier and more flavorful than store-bought options. With minimal effort, these bars offer a delicious way to enjoy oats and apples while keeping your mornings or snack times both convenient and nourishing.
