Apple Oatmeal Bars

Apple Oatmeal Bars Recipe - Wholesome Breakfast or Snack

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 9-12

Introduction

Apple Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and tangy flavor of apples. This recipe is perfect for those who love baked goods but are looking for a healthier option. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day.

History

The concept of combining oats and apples in baked goods has a long history, tracing back to the traditional apple crumble. Over time, bakers began experimenting with various forms, leading to the creation of apple oatmeal bars. This recipe is a modern take on those traditional dishes, incorporating ingredients like whole wheat flour and nuts to enhance its nutritional profile.

Ingredients

0.5 cup packed brown sugar
0.33 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 large eggs
0.5 cup whole wheat flour
0.25 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp cinnamon
0.75 tsp baking powder
0.75 tsp baking soda
0.25 tsp salt
2 golden delicious apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
0.5 cup coarsely chopped nuts plus more for garnish, if desired
1 cup prepared vanilla icing (optional)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the brown sugar and butter until creamy.
Add the eggs and beat until light and fluffy.
Combine both flours, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture until well blended.
Add the apples, oats, and nuts, and stir until evenly distributed.
Spread the mixture in the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely.
If desired, top with icing and garnish with nuts before cutting into bars.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oats and substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend.
Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
Incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Oatmeal Bars turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe, but firm apples for the best flavor and texture.

- If you prefer a less sweet bar, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar.

- For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan margarine.

- Toasting the oats and nuts before adding them to the mixture can enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be served as a standalone snack or paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes for both kids and adults.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a soft yet firm texture to the bars. For best results, ensure your oven is properly preheated and bake the bars until they are golden brown and set.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute margarine with butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

- Use maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar for a natural sweetener option.

- Swap golden delicious apples with any other baking-friendly apple variety, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into uniform squares and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh apple slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Oatmeal Bars pair wonderfully with dairy or plant-based milk, making them a great breakfast option. They also complement light wines like Riesling or a cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you've topped them with icing, it's best to store them in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Apple Oatmeal Bars contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a filling snack or a light breakfast.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Apple Oatmeal Bars contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the oats, flours, and brown sugar, providing a mix of simple and complex carbs for energy.

Fats

These bars contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the fats coming mainly from the margarine and nuts. These ingredients contribute both saturated and unsaturated fats, with a focus on healthier unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Apple Oatmeal Bars offer around 5 grams of protein per serving. The protein sources in this recipe include eggs and nuts, which are essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E from the nuts, vitamin C from the apples, and iron and magnesium from the oats. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining overall health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, nuts, and gluten. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Apple Oatmeal Bars are a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They are relatively high in calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Apple Oatmeal Bars are a versatile and nutritious snack that combines the classic flavors of apples and oats in a convenient bar form. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, they're a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a delicious treat, these bars are sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was in an old, tattered cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of my mother's kitchen cupboard. The pages were yellowed and stained, but the words were clear and inviting: Apple Oatmeal Bars.

As I read through the recipe, my mouth began to water. The combination of sweet apples, hearty oats, and warm spices sounded like the perfect treat for a cool autumn day. I knew I had to try it.

I asked my mother where she had gotten the recipe, but she couldn't remember. It seemed to have been passed down through the generations, from one cook to another, until it had landed in my hands.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. I peeled and chopped the apples, mixed the oats with flour and sugar, and added a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. The smell that filled the kitchen as the bars baked in the oven was heavenly.

When they were finally ready, I couldn't wait to try them. I cut myself a warm, gooey square and took a bite. The combination of textures and flavors was perfect - sweet, spicy, and comforting all at once.

From that moment on, Apple Oatmeal Bars became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and just as a special treat for myself. Each time I made them, I thought of the unknown cook who had first written down the recipe, and I felt a connection to her through the shared love of good food.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own touches and adaptations. Sometimes I add raisins or nuts for extra crunch, or drizzle a simple glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness. But no matter how I change it, the basic recipe remains the same - a comforting blend of apples, oats, and spices that never fails to delight.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it on just as it was passed on to me. And each time someone makes Apple Oatmeal Bars for the first time, I see that same sense of wonder in their eyes that I felt when I first discovered the recipe.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the familiar rituals of cooking and baking. The act of measuring, mixing, and tasting brings me joy and peace in a world that is always changing. And when I make a batch of Apple Oatmeal Bars, I am reminded of all the cooks who came before me, each one adding their own touch to the recipe and passing it on to the next generation.

So here's to the unknown cook who first wrote down the recipe for Apple Oatmeal Bars, wherever she may be. Thank you for sharing your love of good food with me, and for inspiring me to create something delicious and comforting in my own kitchen. And may this recipe continue to bring joy and wonder to cooks for generations to come.