Healthy Apple Oat Snack Bars

In recent years, the movement toward healthier eating has taken center stage in the culinary world. As more individuals seek to lead nutritious lifestyles, the demand for wholesome, convenient snacks has surged. This shift has led to a proliferation of recipes that cater to health-conscious consumers, and among these, Crunchy Apple Oat Snack Bars stand out as a delicious and nutritious option. These bars not only satisfy sweet cravings but also pack a powerful punch of nutrition, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a balanced snack.

Discover the perfect blend of health and flavor with Crunchy Apple Oat Snack Bars. These nutritious treats are made with rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and nut butter, providing a balanced snack that's ideal for any time of day. Customize them for your dietary needs, whether vegan or gluten-free. Packed with fiber and healthy fats, these bars are not only delicious but also help curb cravings and maintain energy levels. Perfect for on-the-go, meal prep, or a wholesome breakfast!

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Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup almond butter (you can substitute with any nut or seed butter of your choice)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (choose based on your taste preference)

1 medium apple, peeled and finely grated

1/2 cup diced dried fruit (like cranberries, apricots, or a mix of both)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (opt for walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nut)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk (can be dairy or plant-based, depending on your preference)

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, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will make for easy removal of the bars once baked.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and milk until smooth and creamy. Add the grated apple to this mixture and stir well to incorporate it evenly.

Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Then, carefully fold in the diced dried fruit and chopped nuts to ensure they are distributed evenly throughout the mixture.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Use a spatula to transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press the mixture down firmly and evenly across the bottom of the dish to ensure the bars hold together well.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut: After baking, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out and place them onto a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, slice into squares or rectangles, according to your preference.

Store: Store the snack bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For enhanced freshness, refrigerate them, which will also extend their shelf life.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Makes 16 bars

Presentation Tips: Serve the snack bars on a rustic wooden platter and sprinkle some extra chopped nuts and dried fruit on top for a colorful and inviting finish!