Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through your kitchen, and when that scent comes from a batch of warm Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars, it feels like home. These delightful bars marry the classic flavors of apple pie with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal, resulting in a treat that is both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these oatmeal bars are sure to please both young and old alike. Let’s dive into this easy, yet delectable recipe that brings together the essence of autumn’s favorite fruit.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars are not only simple to whip up but also bring a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apples combined with a hint of cinnamon creates a delicious filling, while the oatmeal base holds it all together, providing a satisfying chew. These bars are versatile enough to serve as a sweet breakfast option or a delightful afternoon snack. Plus, they are made with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about indulging. Whether you’re cozying up with a book or on the go, these bars are your perfect companion.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups apples, cored, peeled, and chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons water
• ¼ teaspoon salt

These simple ingredients come together to create a tasty and satisfying dish that is great for breakfast or a snack any time of the day.

How To Make Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars

Prepare Your Apples

Start by preparing your apples. Take 2 cups of fresh apples, peel them, core them, and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that the apples cook evenly and integrate nicely into your bars. Set the chopped apples aside for now.

Cook the Apple Mixture

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped apples to the pan along with ¼ cup of packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of water, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together until the apples are well coated.

Simmer It Down

Let the apple mixture simmer on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the apples become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. Once the apples are tender, remove the mixture from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Oatmeal Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. If you like, you can add ¼ cup of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Mix well to combine all the dry ingredients.

Combine and Mix

Once the apple mixture has cooled slightly, fold it into the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is fully combined and the oats are evenly coated. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so you can easily lift out the bars later. Grease the parchment paper lightly with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of butter.

Bake the Bars

Pour the apple and oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan. After about 10 minutes, you can use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.

Expert Tips

• Use tart apples for a more balanced flavor profile. Granny Smith apples work wonderfully in this recipe.
• For extra crunch, feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the oatmeal mixture.
• If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider sprinkling a bit of nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon.
• For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or any other plant-based butter alternative.

Variations and Customizations

• Add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for additional sweetness and texture.
• Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist!
• Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a wholesome option.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.

How to Store Leftovers

These Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. They also freeze well! Simply wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll retain their flavor and texture for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the refrigerator or let them sit at room temperature for a while.

FAQ

Can I use different types of fruit in this recipe?

Absolutely! While apples give that classic pie flavor, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

Are these bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour and rolled oats with certified gluten-free alternatives.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are perfect for meal prep. You can bake them a few days in advance and store them as instructed. They also make for a convenient on-the-go snack!

What can I serve with these bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of yogurt for breakfast.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Oatmeal Bars are delightful, easy to make, and packed with the comforting flavors we all know and love. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes for a wholesome treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for a busy morning or need a sweet snack to get you through the day, these bars have got you covered. Grab your apples, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this deliciously unique take on a classic apple pie. Enjoy every bite!