If you are searching for a wholesome, fuss-free snack that bursts with warm spice and cozy flavors, then look no further than this 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe. These bars are incredibly simple to make yet deliver a comforting bite with every chew. Using just sweetened cinnamon applesauce, natural peanut or almond butter, and quick oats, this recipe brings together the familiar taste of spiced apples and nutty goodness into a wholesome treat perfect for breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a staple recipe that fits so easily into a busy lifestyle but never sacrifices flavor or nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe calls for just a few pantry staples that work harmoniously to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to the hearty chew, the subtle sweetness, and the comforting cinnamon note that makes these bars so special.
- Sweetened cinnamon applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and a tender, moist texture that keeps the bars delightfully soft.
- Natural peanut butter or almond butter: Provides creaminess, healthy fats, and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon applesauce beautifully.
- Quick oats: Adds the essential hearty chew and binds everything together smoothly, creating that perfect oatmeal bar consistency.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). This sets the perfect temperature to bake the bars evenly without drying them out. Line an 8 by 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This overhang is a little secret that makes lifting the bars out easy once they’re baked and cooled, giving you clean edges and less mess!
Step 2: Mix Applesauce and Nut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened cinnamon applesauce and your choice of natural peanut or almond butter. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. This step ensures that the nutty richness is evenly distributed throughout your bars, creating a consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Add Quick Oats and Stir
Once your applesauce and nut butter blend is ready, add in the quick oats. Stir thoroughly until the oats are fully coated and mixed into the batter. This part is crucial because the oats provide structure, helping your bars hold together while baking. Feel free to taste the mixture now — if you want a little more sweetness or spice, this is the perfect time to adjust by adding honey, maple syrup, or an extra teaspoon of cinnamon.
Step 4: Bake Your Bars
Pour the batter into your lined baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, smoothing out the surface to ensure uniform baking. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bars look set and the surface feels dry to the touch. The gentle cinnamon scent will fill your kitchen, confirming these bars are close to perfect!
Step 5: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely before attempting to slice them. This cooling step allows the bars to firm up and prevents crumbling. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper and transfer the slab onto a cutting board. Slice into bars or squares of your preferred size. Now, the fun part — tasting your creation!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cinnamon or a light drizzle of honey over the bars enhances their warm, cozy flavors without overpowering them. For a fresh touch, add a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to add texture and a burst of creaminess.
Side Dishes
These oatmeal bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee, making them a perfect companion for your morning or afternoon break. For extra indulgence, serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries or a fruit smoothie to balance the nutty sweetness with vibrant, tart notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these bars into bite-sized squares for party platters or lunchbox treats. Wrap individual bars in parchment or wax paper tied with twine for charming on-the-go snacks. You can also layer them with yogurt and granola in parfait glasses for an easy, eye-catching breakfast option that delights both the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. The cool environment helps preserve the delicate balance of moisture and the bars’ tender texture.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully, making them ideal for batch prep. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or leave at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm bar, microwave an individual piece for about 15 to 20 seconds. The gentle heat will revive their soft texture and bring out those cinnamon apple aromas, making them taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but keep in mind that rolled oats generally make the bars a bit more crumbly since they don’t bind as easily. If you choose to use rolled oats, pulse them in a food processor to break them down to a size similar to quick oats for better results.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free oats to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy these bars without worry.
How can I make the bars sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to add 1 to 2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sweetener into the batter before baking. Adding a few chocolate chips or dried fruit also boosts sweetness naturally.
Can I change the nut butter used in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap peanut butter for almond butter or any other natural nut butter you like. Just choose a smooth, natural option without added sugars or oils to keep the texture right.
Are these bars suitable for meal prep or packed lunches?
Definitely! Their simple wholesome ingredients and sturdy texture make them perfect for meal prep. They travel well in lunchboxes and keep hunger at bay between meals in a healthy way.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe is one of those delightful kitchen discoveries that makes life easier and tastier. Its simplicity is its charm, and the comforting flavors are its strength. Whether you’re a busy parent, a snacking enthusiast, or someone who loves quick homemade treats, these bars will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Go ahead and give them a try — your taste buds and your schedule will thank you!
Print3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars are a simple, healthy, and delicious snack or breakfast option made with just cinnamon applesauce, natural nut butter, and quick oats. Baked to perfection, they offer a naturally sweet, chewy texture with a hint of cinnamon and peanut butter flavor, perfect for on-the-go or a wholesome treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (186 g) quick oats
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (252 g) sweetened cinnamon applesauce
- 6 tbsp (100 g) natural peanut butter or natural almond butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 inch by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later on.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cinnamon applesauce and natural peanut or almond butter. Stir well until fully combined and uniform in color.
- Add Oats: Add the quick oats into the wet mixture. Stir until the oats are evenly incorporated throughout the mixture. Taste the batter and adjust sweetness if desired by adding honey or maple syrup at this point. You may also add mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit now.
- Spread Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the surface to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars look set, cooked through, and the surface is dry to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment overhang, cut into bars, and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
- These bars are lightly sweetened for a healthy option; add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup if a sweeter bar is preferred.
- Mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit can be added before baking for additional flavor and texture.
- If using rolled oats, pulse them in a food processor to break them down to the size of quick oats for better binding; otherwise, bars may fall apart.
- You can substitute regular applesauce and add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon if cinnamon applesauce is unavailable.
- Use unsweetened cinnamon applesauce with added sweetener or none based on your sweetness preference.
