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4.7 from 18 votes

Apple Oatmeal Bars

These healthy apple oatmeal bars are made with wholesome ingredients and studded with fresh apple chunks. They're kid-friendly, portable and perfect for meal prep. Vegan + gluten-free.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Servings: 8
Calories: 231 kcal
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 3 cups quick oats divided
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¾ cup applesauce
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 2 Tablespoons ground flaxseed
  • 2 Tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 medium apple chopped (about 1 cup), divided

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Put 2 cups of the quick oats in a blender or food processor and blend until you’ve created oat flour.
  3. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining oats, baking powder, cinnamon and salt and stir to combine.
  4. Add applesauce, maple syrup, flaxseed, coconut oil and vanilla and mix well until combined.
  5. Gently fold in about ¾ cup of the chopped apples.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Scatter remaining apple chunks on top, gently pressing them down.
  7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the bars are cooked through and a toothpick insured comes out clean.
  8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 8 bars and serving.

Notes

  • Use the right apples: Not all apples are created equal, especially when it comes to baking. Choose a firm variety like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, which hold up well during the baking process and offer a nice, sweet-tart flavor.
  • Blend oats properly: To create a nice, soft texture for your bars, make sure to blend 2 cups of the quick oats into a fine oat flour. A high-powered blender or food processor will do the job perfectly.
  • Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars a little early to ensure they don't overcook. They're done when firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Don't skip the cooling time: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting them. This will make sure that they hold their shape and don't crumble when cut.
  • Spice it up: If you're a fan of warming spices, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the mixture along with the cinnamon. This will provide a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
  • Double the batch: If you have a 9x13 dish and want to meal prep for the week, you can easily double the recipe. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
  • Customize your bars: While this recipe calls for apples, you can substitute other fruits like pears, or add in extras like nuts, seeds, raisins, or chocolate chips for added texture.

Nutrition Information

Serving 1 bar Calories 231kcal (12%) Carbohydrates 38g (13%) Protein 6g (12%) Fat 6g (9%) Saturated Fat 3g (15%) Sodium 208mg (9%) Potassium 61mg (2%) Fiber 5g (20%) Sugar 14g (28%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 231

% Daily Value*

Serving 1 bar
Calories 231kcal 12%
Carbohydrates 38g 13%
Protein 6g 12%
Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Sodium 208mg 9%
Potassium 61mg 1%
Fiber 5g 20%
Sugar 14g 28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.