These Chewiest Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars are a tasty treat packed with sweet apples and a hint of cinnamon. They make for a great snack or breakfast that’s filling and delicious!
Honestly, I can’t resist these bars! They remind me of cozy mornings. I love having them with a warm cup of tea, and the whole house smells fantastic while they bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the bars their chewy texture. If you have quick oats, you can use those, but the texture will be a bit softer. I prefer rolled oats for that extra heartiness!
All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure to the bars. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
Apple Butter: This sweet, spiced spread is key to the flavor. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with applesauce, but you may want to add a bit of cinnamon and sugar for the right taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness. You can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version, which still tastes great in this recipe!
How Do You Make Sure Your Bars Are Perfectly Chewy?
Getting that perfect chewy texture in these oatmeal bars involves a few simple tricks. First, don’t overmix the dough; you only want to combine the ingredients until everything is mixed but not overly smooth.
- Press the oat mixture firmly into the pan to create a solid base; this helps hold the bars together.
- Don’t skimp on the baking time; they should be golden brown for that chewy quality. If they look too soft, give them a couple more minutes!
Lastly, letting the bars cool completely in the pan is crucial. Cutting them too early may cause them to fall apart. Trust me, patience pays off!
The Chewiest Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base and Topping:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped (optional for extra texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30-35 minutes to bake. Plus, make sure to allow some time for the bars to cool before slicing—it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out later. The smell of cinnamon will soon fill your kitchen!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir until all the dry ingredients are mixed evenly. The cinnamon scent will make you eager to move on to the next steps!
3. Combine with Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract into the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix it all up until you form a crumbly dough. This will be the base layer of your bars.
4. Create the Base Layer:
Take about two-thirds of the oat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure it’s compact to provide a solid foundation for the apple filling.
5. Add the Filling:
Now, spread the apple butter evenly over your pressed oat base. If you want to add a bit of crunch, scatter the finely chopped apple on top of the apple butter. Mmm, so delicious!
6. Add the Topping:
Next, crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the apple butter layer. This will create a lovely crisp topping for your bars.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown topping and bubbly apple filling. Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
8. Cool the Bars:
Once they’re done baking, take the pan out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Patience is key here—let them cool down fully so they slice nicely!
9. Slice and Serve:
After cooling, lift the bars out by using the parchment paper edges. Cut them into squares, and they’re ready to be enjoyed. Perfect as a snack or a sweet breakfast treat!
10. Enjoy:
These Chewy Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars are a delightful mix of sweet and spice, with a chewy texture you’ll love. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for tasty snacks throughout the week!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While rolled oats provide the best texture for these bars, quick oats can be used in a pinch. However, keep in mind that they will result in a softer texture. I recommend sticking with rolled oats for that perfect chewiness!
Can I Substitute Apple Butter?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple butter, you can use unsweetened applesauce, but add a little bit of cinnamon and sugar to mimic the flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own apple butter at home!
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just wrap each bar individually to keep them fresh!
Can I Add Nuts or Other Fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, can also be a great addition if you want a little extra sweetness!