Description

Delicious and wholesome Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars packed with rolled oats, dried apples, and warm cinnamon. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, these bars are perfect for a healthy snack that’s kid-friendly and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped dried apples
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or raisins (optional)

Wet Ingredients

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift the bars after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped dried apples, ground cinnamon, salt, and any optional nuts or chocolate chips. Stir to distribute evenly.
Prepare Wet Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, and almond or peanut butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until everything is well coated and combined.
Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to ensure bars hold together after baking.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Cool and Slice: Allow the granola bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before removing and cutting into 12 bars.

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Optional nuts and chocolate chips can be omitted or substituted as desired for dietary preferences.
Chilling the bars before slicing prevents crumbling and helps maintain shape.