Soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened, these Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are one of my favorite ways to start the day on a cozy note. Packed with fresh apples, warm spices, and hearty oats, these bars are not just satisfying—they’re also nourishing, kid-friendly, and ideal for meal prep. Whether I need a quick breakfast, a snack on the go, or something to tuck into a lunchbox, these bars always hit the spot.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups finely chopped apples (peeled if desired)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, I mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, I whisk the applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), almond butter, and vanilla until it’s smooth and well combined.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir it all together until it forms a thick, even batter.
Then I fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if I’m using them).
I spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan, pressing it down gently.
The bars bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 9 bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 165 kcal per bar
Variations
I sometimes swap almond butter for peanut butter if that’s what I have on hand.
For an extra protein boost, I add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dry ingredients.
I love throwing in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a little extra sweetness and texture.
If I’m baking for kids, I often skip the nuts or chop them extra fine for easier chewing.
I’ve also made these with pears instead of apples, and they turned out just as delicious.
Storage/Reheating
Once the bars are completely cool, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I keep them in the fridge for up to a week. I can also freeze them—just wrap each bar individually and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They thaw quickly at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. If I want to enjoy a warm bar, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave does the trick.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best for these bars?
I like to use crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Absolutely. I just use sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative, and skip the optional nuts. They still turn out soft and flavorful.
Are these bars suitable for toddlers?
Yes, they’re soft and naturally sweetened, so they’re great for little ones. I just make sure to chop the apples finely and leave out the nuts if I’m serving them to toddlers.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I prefer rolled oats for texture, but quick oats will work in a pinch. The bars may turn out slightly softer and less chewy.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
I look for a golden top and use the toothpick test—if it comes out clean from the center, they’re done. It usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes in my oven.
Conclusion
These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars have become a staple in my kitchen because they’re simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether I need a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or something to satisfy a sweet craving without the guilt, these bars deliver. I can easily customize them to fit what I have on hand, and they freeze beautifully for future busy mornings. Give them a try—I think you’ll love having them in your meal prep rotation.
📖 Recipe:
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Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened, these Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are made with wholesome oats, fresh apples, and warm spices. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or lunchboxes, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups finely chopped apples (peeled if desired)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined into a thick batter.
- Fold in the chopped apples and optional nuts.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and press it down gently.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares.
Notes
Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for best results.
For nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter and omit nuts.
Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
Can substitute pears for apples with great results.
Store at room temperature for 3 days, in the fridge for a week, or freeze for longer storage.
To reheat, microwave a bar for 10–15 seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
