Nutritious Bars with Apples, Walnuts, and Oats

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to reach a smoother consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, combine the oats, chopped walnuts, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients together evenly.

Step 4: Add Apples and Wet Mixture

Fold the diced apples into the dry mixture. Then, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick but cohesive. If it feels too dry, add a small amount of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together well.

Step 5: Press into the Baking Pan

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly into an even layer. This will help the bars hold together once they bake. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press down evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. The bars should feel firm to the touch but not overly dry.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 2 months for a longer-lasting snack.

Customization Tips:

• Add Dried Fruit: To increase the sweetness and add more flavor, consider adding some chopped dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots.
• Mix in Seeds: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds for an extra boost of nutrients and crunch.
• Boost the Protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to increase the protein content of the bars, making them a great post-workout snack.
• Change Up the Nuts: Walnuts are a great choice, but you can substitute with almonds, pecans, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.

Why These Nutritious Bars Are a Must-Try:

These Nutritious Bars with Apples, Walnuts, and Oats are the perfect way to enjoy a healthy snack without sacrificing taste. The combination of oats, apples, and walnuts provides a balance of nutrients that will keep you full and satisfied. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened, so you won’t experience the sugar crash that often comes with store-bought snacks.

Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a wholesome dessert, these bars fit the bill. They’re easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious. So next time you’re craving something nutritious and satisfying, reach for one of these homemade bars—you’ll be glad you did!