These soft and chewy cinnamon apple oat bars are made with simple pantry ingredients and deliver cozy flavor in every bite. Rolled oats, applesauce, and fresh diced apples come together to create a naturally sweet, comforting bar that works perfectly as a snack, breakfast, or lunchbox treat. They are gentle on ingredients yet rich in texture and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These oat bars are easy to prepare and require only one bowl, making cleanup minimal. They are naturally sweetened without refined sugar, rely on wholesome ingredients, and have a soft, moist, and chewy texture that both kids and adults enjoy. They store well, freeze beautifully, and feel just as appropriate for a busy morning as for a relaxed afternoon break.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup diced apples

Optional additions if desired
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
A small pinch of ground nutmeg

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the applesauce, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.

Add the rolled oats and diced apples to the bowl. Fold everything together until the oats are fully coated and the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure the bars hold together once baked.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top looks set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 9 square bars when cut from an 8×8-inch pan.

Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Baking time is 25 to 30 minutes.
Cooling time is approximately 30 minutes.

Total time from start to finish is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Variations

For a softer texture, quick oats can be used instead of rolled oats. Pears can replace apples for a slightly different fruit flavor. Chia seeds or ground flaxseed can be mixed in for added fiber. Date syrup works well as an alternative sweetener if you prefer a deeper caramel-like sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

The bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. In the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 6 days and develop an even chewier texture. For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving if desired.

FAQs

Are these bars soft or crunchy?

They are soft and chewy, especially in the center, with a tender oat texture throughout.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, using pure maple syrup instead of honey makes the bars completely vegan.

Are these oat bars gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if certified gluten-free oats are used.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling works well. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on adds a bit more texture and fiber.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the honey or maple syrup, but the bars may be less moist.

Why do my bars crumble when slicing?

They likely need more cooling time. Let them cool completely before cutting.

Can I add spices other than cinnamon?

Yes, nutmeg or a small amount of allspice pairs well with the apple flavor.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they are naturally sweet, soft in texture, and easy to hold, making them kid-friendly.

Can I eat them cold from the fridge?

Absolutely. Many people enjoy them chilled because they become extra chewy.

Conclusion

These soft and chewy cinnamon apple oat bars are a perfect example of simple, nourishing baking. With warm spices, gentle sweetness, and wholesome ingredients, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you bake them for busy mornings, cozy afternoons, or make-ahead snacks, they are sure to become a dependable favorite in your kitchen.

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