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In today’s fast-paced world, finding wholesome snacks that satisfy our cravings while also supporting our health can be a challenge. Homemade snacks, however, offer the perfect solution. They are not only customizable to suit your taste but also allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you enjoy a treat that is both delicious and nutritious. One such delightful option is the Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars. These bars are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the warm sweetness of apples and the comforting spice of cinnamon, all while delivering a hearty dose of nutrition.

Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars

Looking for a wholesome snack that satisfies your cravings? Try these Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars! Combining rolled oats, fresh apples, and aromatic cinnamon, these bars offer a deliciously crunchy treat that's also nutritious. Perfect for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a post-workout boost, they're easy to customize for dietary preferences. Enjoy the heart-healthy benefits of oats while indulging in a tasty homemade snack. Perfect for families and health-conscious snackers alike!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith for extra tartness)

½ cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter)

⅓ cup honey or maple syrup

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional for added crunch)

¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional for a hint of sweetness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some excess paper on the sides for easy removal later.

    Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the unsweetened applesauce along with the almond butter and your choice of honey or maple syrup. Add the vanilla extract. Using a spatula or whisk, mix these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and well-blended consistency.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mix.

        Incorporate Mixtures: Gradually introduce the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring continuously until fully combined. Gently fold in the diced apples, along with the optional chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Utilize a spatula or your hands to firmly and evenly press the mixture into the dish, ensuring it's packed down well.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top turns a lovely golden brown and the bars are firm to the touch.

              Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and set it on a wire cooling rack. Allow the bars to cool for at least 10-15 minutes. Once cooled slightly, use the overhanging parchment paper to carefully lift the entire block of bars out of the dish. Let them cool completely on the wire rack before cutting them into squares.

                Serve and Store: After cooling completely, slice the bars into 12 squares. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. These delightful bars can be enjoyed immediately, but they taste even better the next day!

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