Chewy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars Easy Recipe

Looking for a tasty and easy breakfast? Try my Chewy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars! With simple ingredients like oats, apples, and almond butter, these bars are a fun start to your day. You can whip them up quickly and enjoy them at home or on the go. Ready to delight your taste buds and boost your mornings? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith preferred)

– 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter alternative)

– 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

– 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Gather these ingredients for a tasty start. Rolled oats give the bars their chewy texture. Unsweetened applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness. I love using a Granny Smith apple for its tartness, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness. Almond butter or peanut butter binds everything together and adds flavor.

Honey or maple syrup sweetens the mix. Vanilla extract enhances the overall taste, while ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice. Baking powder helps the bars rise just a bit. A touch of salt balances the sweetness. Nuts give crunch, and raisins or dried cranberries add extra sweetness if you like.

This list covers everything you need for delicious apple cinnamon breakfast bars. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Pan

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

– In a large bowl, combine 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

– Stir well to mix the dry ingredients evenly.

Blending Wet Ingredients

– In another bowl, mix 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup almond butter, 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

– Combine until smooth and creamy.

Combining Mixtures

– Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.

– Stir gently until just combined.

– Add 1 diced apple, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup optional raisins.

– Fold these into the mixture carefully.

Baking the Mixture

– Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan.

– Press it down evenly with a spatula.

– Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Cooling and Slicing

– Remove the pan from the oven.

– Let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan.

– Move to a wire rack to cool completely.

– Slice into 12 bars once cooled.

Tips & Tricks

Ingredient Substitutes

– Alternatives to almond butter: If you can’t find almond butter, peanut butter works well too. Sunflower seed butter is also a nut-free option. It adds a nice flavor and creaminess.

– Sweeteners options: Honey gives a rich taste, while maple syrup adds a unique flavor. Both are great for sweetness. You can pick the one you like best.

Baking Tips

– How to tell when the bars are done: Look for golden edges. You can also insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!

– Tricks for even cooking: Make sure you evenly spread the mixture in the pan. Press it down firmly to help it bake evenly. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for best results.

Presentation Ideas

– Dusted with cinnamon: A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes them look pretty. It also adds extra flavor.

– Packaging suggestions for on-the-go: Wrap each bar in parchment paper. This makes it easy to grab and go. You can also tie them with twine for a cute touch!

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

– Gluten-free options: You can easily make these bars gluten-free. Simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This small change ensures that everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worry.

– Nut-free alternatives: If you need nut-free bars, swap almond butter for sun butter or sunflower seed butter. This keeps the creaminess while avoiding nuts.

Flavor Variations

– Add-ins like chocolate chips or seeds: For a fun twist, mix in chocolate chips or seeds like chia or flax. These add extra flavor and texture. You can use about half a cup of your choice.

– Different fruits: You can use other fruits too! Try ripe bananas or juicy pears for a new flavor. These fruits also add natural sweetness.

Sweetness Adjustments

– Reducing sugar for a less sweet bar: If you prefer less sweetness, cut back on honey or maple syrup. You can use just a couple of tablespoons. This keeps the flavor without being too sweet.

– Using different natural sweeteners: Try using agave syrup or mashed bananas instead. Both options offer sweetness without refined sugar. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your Chewy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep out moisture and air, which can spoil your bars. You can store them at room temperature for about one week. If you want them to last longer, the fridge is a great option. Bars stored in the fridge can last up to two weeks. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before eating, as they may become a little firm in the fridge.

Freezing Options

If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a perfect choice. To freeze, wrap each bar in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. You can freeze the bars for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat one, take it out of the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours. This method keeps the texture and flavor just right.

FAQs

Can I make these breakfast bars vegan?

Yes, you can easily make these breakfast bars vegan. To do this, substitute honey with maple syrup. For almond butter, you can use any nut or seed butter you like. Peanut butter works great and has a similar taste. This way, you keep all the flavors while making it vegan-friendly.

How long do these bars last?

These bars can last about a week when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to store them longer, place them in the fridge for up to two weeks. This keeps them fresh and tasty for breakfast or snacks.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

You can use quick oats, but the texture will change. Quick oats will make the bars softer and less chewy. They may also bake faster, so check them around 20 minutes. If you prefer a firmer bar, stick with rolled oats.

Are these breakfast bars healthy?

Yes, these breakfast bars are quite healthy. They are made with rolled oats, which are full of fiber. Apples provide vitamins and natural sweetness. Almond butter adds healthy fats and protein. Overall, these bars offer a balanced mix of nutrients that fuel your day.

You learned how to make delicious breakfast bars using simple ingredients. We covered steps from mixing to baking, ensuring you can enjoy this easy recipe. Remember, you can customize flavors, adjust sweetness, and modify ingredients based on dietary needs. Store these bars properly and even freeze them for later. Enjoy your tasty, wholesome snack toda