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Introducing the Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars, a wholesome, easy-to-make snack that marries the delightful flavors of fresh apples and warm cinnamon. These bars are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also pack a nutritional punch, making them an excellent choice for breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up. With the growing emphasis on healthy eating, these oat bars stand out, offering a perfect balance of taste and health benefits.

Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars

Discover the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition with Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars. These homemade snacks combine wholesome rolled oats, tart Granny Smith apples, and a hint of cinnamon for a delicious treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without the guilt. Ideal for breakfast on-the-go or a midday pick-me-up, these bars are easily customizable to fit various dietary needs. Enjoy a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on taste!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened apple sauce

1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced

1/2 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter)

1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift out the bars once they are baked.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix them together thoroughly so that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the unsweetened apple sauce, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Add the diced apple, along with the chopped walnuts or pecans and the dried cranberries or raisins if you're using them. Stir everything together until all of the oats and ingredients are well coated and combined.

          Spread in Baking Dish: Carefully transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press the mixture down firmly, creating an even layer across the dish. This step is essential for ensuring the bars hold together after baking.

            Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the bars begin to turn a golden brown color.

              Cool: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling step is vital for achieving the desired texture of the bars.

                Slice and Serve: Once completely cooled, utilize the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars out of the baking dish. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles based on your preference.

                  Store: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you'd like to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them for future enjoyment.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve these bars with a drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can also stack them neatly on a platter for a delightful display!