Chewy bars packed with oats, warm cinnamon, and maple syrup for a wholesome snack or breakfast boost.
# Ingredient List:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
04 - 1/2 tsp baking powder
05 - 1/4 tsp salt
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
08 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
→ Add-Ins
11 - 1/3 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
12 - 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk maple syrup, melted butter (or coconut oil), applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined.
05 - Gently fold in chopped nuts and dried fruit if using.
06 - Evenly spread the batter in the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
07 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.
