Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars (Healthy & Delicious)

Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars (Healthy & Delicious)

Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and freshly baked apples wafting through your kitchen—a delightful invitation to start your day. These Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are not just wholesome and quick to prepare; they bring nostalgia wrapped in a delicious package. Perfect for busy mornings, school lunches, or as an afternoon snack, this recipe features a delightful combo of oats, cinnamon, and crispy apple bites bursting with flavor. Worth making for any occasion, these bars are a healthy, kid-friendly indulgence that you won’t want to miss.

What’s your favorite breakfast to kick off a cozy day?

Is there anything more inviting than the thought of enjoying a sweet treat that’s not only delicious but also nourishing? Picture this: you’re cozying up on the couch, savoring a still-warm apple cinnamon bar alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. You can let the comforting flavors transport you back to childhood memories, where the simple things brought joy. Now, imagine sharing these comforting breakfast bars with family and friends, bringing smiles and warmth to your breakfast table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and minimal time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Healthy: Packed with oats and apples, these bars are a nutritious way to start your day.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love the sweet flavors, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch boxes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for brunch or an after-school snack, these bars are sure to impress.
• Minimal Ingredients: This recipe sticks to basics but delivers on flavor, making it budget-friendly and straightforward.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan option)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 1/4 cups diced apples (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (raisins, or chocolate chips, optional)

The notes of cinnamon and apple create a symphony of autumnal flavors, while the chewy texture of oats delivers satisfaction in every bite. The addition of nut butter creates a creamy richness that contrasts perfectly with the crispy apples.

Timing

These Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars strike a perfect balance between fast and indulgent. You can mix together the ingredients in under fifteen minutes, and in just half an hour, you’ll have warm, golden-brown bars ready to devour. There’s no need for a leisurely morning; you can fit these into your busy schedule without sacrificing enjoyment.

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will set the stage for your breakfast bars to bake to perfection.

2. Line the pan: Prepare an 8×8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing. This step will ensure that your scrumptious bars come out easily after baking.

3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure the flavors circulate evenly.

4. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The smell of almond butter mixed with vanilla is already intoxicating!

5. Combine mixtures: Pour your wet ingredients into the dry ones, gently stirring until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense bars, so handle this step with care.

6. Fold in apples: Carefully add in the diced apples and any optional ingredients like walnuts, raisins, or chocolate chips. Stir gently to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.

7. Transfer to pan: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan, spreading it into an even layer. The colorful chunks of apple should be peeking through the mixture, creating a visual feast.

8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want a beautiful golden-brown top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean—a tell-tale sign of perfectly baked goodness!

9. Cool and slice: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool completely before slicing into 9 delicious bars.

Nutritional Information

Each bar is approximately 150 calories, making them perfect for a guilt-free breakfast or snack. Packed with fiber from oats and natural sugars from apples, you can indulge without compromising your health goals. These bars provide a healthy start to your day, keeping your sweet tooth satisfied!

Healthier Alternatives

For a low-sugar variation, consider substituting the maple syrup with unsweetened applesauce or reducing the honey. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, switch to almond milk or coconut milk. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra boost of nutrients!

Serving Suggestions

These delightful breakfast bars can stand alone or be paired with other treats. Consider serving them with a dollop of yogurt, a scoop of ice cream for a dessert twist, or even as part of a holiday brunch spread. They make for a fantastic addition to gatherings, bringing warmth and togetherness.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overbaking the bars, resulting in a dry texture. Keep an eye on them and perform the toothpick test. Another mistake is not letting the bars cool completely before slicing, causing them to crumble. Lastly, if you skip mixing the wet and dry ingredients carefully, you may end up with unevenly flavored bars.

Storing Tips

Store your Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. When you crave a sweet bite, simply reheat in a microwave for a warm, gooey treat.

Tempted to Bake it ASAP?

With their incredible aroma, delightful taste, and healthy ingredients, these Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are just waiting for you to make them. Don’t wait too long—preheat that oven and let the sweet smell of cinnamon and baked apples fill your home.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Using quick oats may alter the texture, making them softer and less chewy. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best result!

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substituting rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats will keep your breakfast bars free from gluten while still enjoying the delightful flavors.

3. Can I replace almond butter with another nut butter?
Absolutely! Feel free to use peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

4. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to make it vegan-friendly.

5. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown top. Insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, they are done!

These mouthwatering Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are the perfect treat to brighten your mornings and satisfy your cravings. Grab your apron and start baking today!

Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars

Wholesome and delicious apple cinnamon breakfast bars made with oats and fresh apples, perfect for busy mornings or as an afternoon snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Breakfast, Snacks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan option)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

Add-ins

• 1 1/4 cups diced apples (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (raisins, or chocolate chips, optional) Optional ingredients for added flavor and texture.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare an 8x8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the diced apples and any optional ingredients like walnuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it into an even layer.

Baking

1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Slice into 9 bars.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly.