These Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bars are a delightful and healthy treat, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. You’ll love how simple they are to make, bringing warm, comforting flavors to your kitchen. These healthy bars are a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet bite without guilt.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats can work but will result in a softer bar.
- Apples: Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are ideal. Don’t use overly soft apples.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey works best for a natural sweetness.
- Oil: Coconut oil (melted) or unsalted butter.
Ingredients:
For the Oat Crumble:
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 healthy bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This makes cleaning up a breeze.
2. Make the Oat Crumble
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted coconut oil or butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside about ½ cup of this mixture for the topping.
3. Form the Base Layer
Press the remaining oat crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to compact it firmly. This creates a sturdy foundation for your healthy bars.
4. Prepare the Apple Filling
In another bowl, combine the diced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss everything gently until the apples are well coated. The cornstarch helps thicken the filling.
5. Assemble the Bars
Spread the apple filling evenly over the oat crumble base in the pan. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of oat crumble mixture over the apple layer. This creates a delicious crispy topping.
6. Bake Your Bars
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting. Cooling is crucial for clean slices.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Crunch: Add ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat crumble for extra texture.
- Berry Boost: Replace half the apples with blueberries or chopped strawberries for a mixed fruit flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for more depth.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Apple Cinnamon Crisp Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. These healthy bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture of the crumble will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats provide a better crisp.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer.
How do I prevent the bars from being soggy?
Ensure your apples are finely diced, and don’t skip the cornstarch in the filling. Over-baking slightly can also help.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use coconut oil for the crumble and ensure your brown sugar is vegan-friendly. These are already dairy-free healthy bars.
What kind of apples are best for crisp bars?
Firm, tart-sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala work wonderfully, as they hold their shape well during baking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These healthy bars are great for meal prep. Bake them, cool completely, and store as directed.