As I rummaged through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon a jar of sweet cinnamon applesauce, and ideas started swirling. Suddenly, I was inspired to whip up some 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars that would be perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. These delightful bars not only include three simple ingredients, but they also fit seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle—no flour or butter required! They’re wonderfully chewy and bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Just imagine grabbing one of these bars as you rush out the door, knowing you’re fueling yourself right without sacrificing taste. What will you pair with your oatmeal bars: a cup of coffee or a scoop of yogurt?
Why Are These Oatmeal Bars Amazing?
Easy to Make: With just three simple ingredients, these 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars come together in no time—making them a go-to for busy mornings.
Healthy and Wholesome: Guilt-free indulgence awaits! These bars are flourless, gluten-free, and packed with fiber, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious snack without added sugars.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you need a quick breakfast option or a satisfying snack, these bars cater to all occasions. Plus, they can be easily tweaked—think optional mix-ins like berries or chocolate chips!
Delicious Flavor: The delightful cinnamon apple combination offers a comforting taste reminiscent of your favorite childhood treats, loved by both kids and adults.
These bars are as convenient as they are delicious—why not pair them with a cup of your favorite coffee or try a scoop of yogurt for an even more satisfying experience? For other delightful options, consider our Cinnamon Sugar French or Cinnamon Swirl Banana recipes!
3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Bars
• Sweetened Cinnamon Applesauce – Provides moisture and sweetness; for a twist, use unsweetened applesauce and add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Natural Peanut Butter or Almond Butter – Serves as a binding agent while adding healthy fats; substitute with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
• Quick Oats – The main structural component that holds the bars together; opt for old-fashioned oats if pulsed into smaller pieces for better binding.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). As it warms up, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking. This step is essential for ensuring your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars bake evenly and lift out easily when they’re done.
Step 2: Mix Applesauce and Nut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine a jar of sweetened cinnamon applesauce with natural peanut butter or almond butter. Use a spatula or whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This creamy base will provide both flavor and moisture to your bars.
Step 3: Incorporate the Oats
Once your applesauce and nut butter are well combined, add the quick oats to the bowl. Stir everything together until the oats are fully coated in the mixture and evenly distributed, which should take another 2 to 3 minutes. The consistency should be thick and sticky, ready to form your delicious bars.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, smoothing out the top for a consistent thickness. Make sure to press it down firmly—this will help the 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars hold together during baking and when you cut them later.
Step 5: Bake Until Set
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the surface appears dry and slightly golden, and the edges start to pull away from the pan. This is a great cue that your oatmeal bars are set and will have the perfect chewy texture upon cooling.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
After removing your bars from the oven, allow them to cool completely in the baking pan on a wire rack. Once cooled—this may take about 30 minutes—carefully lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles, and enjoy your wholesome 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars!
Make Ahead Options
These 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the sweetened cinnamon applesauce and nut butter (or almond butter) up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Similarly, you can combine the wet ingredients with the quick oats, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the prepped mixture into your baking pan and follow the original baking instructions, knowing that your bars will be just as delicious! This method saves valuable time on busy mornings while ensuring you enjoy these wholesome treats at their best.
3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists that will add your personal touch to our delightful oatmeal bars!
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Nut-Free: Substitute peanut or almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a safe, nut-free option.
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Fruitful Add-ins: Mix in chopped apples, diced pears, or berries for added texture and burst of flavor. Try folding in some chopped fruits during the mixing step!
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Chocolatey Delight: Add a handful of dark or dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet touch that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Experiment by replacing cinnamon with apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice for an autumn-inspired taste.
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Vegan Option: Ensure you’re using a vegan nut butter and unsweetened applesauce to keep these bars plant-based. They’ll still taste delicious!
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Chewy & Crispy: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chia seeds or sliced almonds on top before baking. The texture transformation is delightful!
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Mini Bars: Cut the baking time in half and use a mini muffin pan for bite-sized mini bars, perfect for little hands or snacking on the go.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations! And if you’re looking for other tasty ideas, you might love our Warm Caramel Apple or Pineapple Chicken Fried recipes!
What to Serve with 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars
Imagine starting your day with these chewy, cinnamon-infused delights and a few joyful accompaniments to make breakfast truly special.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds richness and a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy berries bring a burst of freshness, finishing off your meal with a pop of color and nutrients.
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Nut Butter Drizzle: Enhance the nutty flavor by drizzling some extra peanut or almond butter on top, creating a satisfying and rich experience.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew, whether it’s coffee or herbal tea, will elevate your snack time to a cozy moment of bliss.
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Dried Fruit Medley: A mix of dried apricots or cranberries adds chewiness and sweetness, complementing the cinnamon apple flavor in delightful ways.
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Chia Seed Pudding: Serve the oatmeal bars alongside creamy chia seed pudding for a nutritious and filling breakfast combination.
Bite into these bars and enjoy them with your chosen pairings for a wholesome meal that is sure to satisfy!
Expert Tips for 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars
• Select the Right Oats: Use quick oats for the best binding. Rolled oats can work too, but pulse them first to achieve a finer texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter bars, feel free to mix in a little honey or maple syrup to the batter before baking.
• Cool Completely: Be patient! Letting the bars cool completely will ensure a firmer texture that holds together beautifully when you slice them.
• Storage Secrets: Store your uneaten bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
• Fun Variations: Experiment with mix-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture in your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars!
Storage Tips for 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars
Fridge: Keep your uneaten bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Enjoying them warm? Simply microwave a frozen or refrigerated bar for about 15–20 seconds for a comforting treat any time of day.
Wrap Carefully: To prevent freezer burn, ensure each bar is well-wrapped. This helps retain the delicious cinnamon apple flavor in your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars.
3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right applesauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose sweetened cinnamon applesauce, which adds both moisture and sweetness to the bars. If you prefer a less sweet option, you can use unsweetened applesauce and mix in about 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to achieve that classic flavor.
How should I store my oatmeal bars after baking?
To keep your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you’d like to enjoy them later, you can freeze the bars—just remember to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze the oatmeal bars, and how long do they last?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these bars! Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just microwave it for about 15–20 seconds to warm it up for a delightful treat.
What if my bars fall apart after baking? How can I fix that?
Very! If your bars are crumbly, it could be due to the type of oats used or not mixing the ingredients thoroughly. I recommend using quick oats, as they bind better. If you experience this issue, you could also add another tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to help hold the bars together or ensure you’re pressing the mixture firmly into the baking pan before baking.
Are these bars safe for my kids who have nut allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt these 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars to be nut-free. Simply replace the natural peanut butter or almond butter with sunflower seed butter, which provides a similar texture and flavor without any nuts. Just be careful to check your other ingredients for any potential allergens!
How can I customize the flavors of my oatmeal bars?
Very good question! You can personalize your oatmeal bars by mixing in other delicious ingredients. Consider adding chopped apples, berries, or even chocolate chips for a different twist! You can also adjust the cinnamon content to your liking or experiment with apple pie spice for a delightful variation.
Irresistible 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix sweetened cinnamon applesauce with natural peanut butter or almond butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the quick oats to the mixture and stir until fully coated and evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly, pressing down firmly.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the surface is dry and slightly golden.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
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