Soft and chewy, the 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that fits perfectly into any part of your day. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a substantial snack, or a simple dessert, these bars have you covered. With just three ingredients, they are incredibly easy to prepare and full of flavor. These wholesome bars showcase the natural sweetness of applesauce paired with hearty oats and creamy peanut butter, making them a healthy option for all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these bars up in no time.
- Healthy Snack: Made with natural ingredients, these bars are packed with fiber and protein to keep you satisfied.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast on-the-go, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert.
- Kid-Friendly: The chewy texture and sweet flavor make them appealing to children, perfect for school lunches.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to tailor the bars to your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this quick recipe for 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and faster.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Baking pan (8×8 inches)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Spatula: This tool helps in evenly spreading the batter in the baking pan for uniform cooking.
- Baking pan: An 8×8 inch size ensures that the bars cook evenly without being too thick or too thin.
Ingredients
Soft and chewy apple oatmeal bars. These easy bars are great for breakfast, snack or dessert.
For the Base
- 1 cup (251 g) unsweetened applesauce
- 6 tbsp (100 g) unsweetened natural peanut butter
- 2 cups (175 g) rolled oats
How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch by 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine unsweetened applesauce and peanut butter. Stir until fully mixed and uniform in color. Then add in rolled oats, mixing until evenly distributed. If you’re adding any mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, smoothing out the surface.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 13-15 minutes or until the bars appear set and cooked through. Allow them to cool completely before removing from the pan. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. Store any uneaten bars in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
With just a few simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy these delightful 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars that everyone will love!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
These 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a sweet dessert, these bars fit the bill perfectly.
Breakfast On-the-Go
- Pair with fresh fruit: Serve your oatmeal bars with slices of banana or berries for added freshness and nutrition.
- Enjoy with yogurt: Top a bar with a dollop of your favorite yogurt for a creamy texture and extra protein.
Afternoon Snack
- Drizzle with honey: A light drizzle of honey can enhance the sweetness and make it more indulgent.
- Serve with nut butter: Spread additional peanut butter or almond butter on top for a filling afternoon pick-me-up.
Dessert Option
- Add chocolate chips: Mix in some dark chocolate chips before baking for a decadent treat.
- Top with cinnamon: Sprinkling cinnamon on top before baking adds warmth and flavor to your bars.
How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
Perfecting your 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars is all about technique and the right ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use ripe applesauce: The sweeter the applesauce, the better the flavor. Choose unsweetened options for healthier bars.
- Properly measure oats: Make sure you use rolled oats and measure them accurately for the best texture.
- Mix thoroughly: Combine ingredients until uniform; this ensures an even bake and consistent flavor throughout.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the oven to avoid dryness. The bars should look set but still soft in the center.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
These apple oatmeal bars pair nicely with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving them.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds color and freshness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Nut Butter Dip: Serve a small bowl of almond or peanut butter for dipping, enhancing both taste and nutrition.
- Cottage Cheese: A scoop of cottage cheese offers creaminess and extra protein alongside your bars.
- Antioxidant Smoothie: Blend spinach, banana, and almond milk for a refreshing drink that pairs well with your oatmeal bars.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option provides fiber and is easy to prepare ahead of time—perfect for breakfast!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring Measurements: Not measuring ingredients correctly can lead to inconsistent results. Always use precise measurements for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the Baking Time: Underbaking can make your bars too soft and gooey. Keep an eye on them and bake until they are set and lightly golden.
- Not Cooling Completely: Cutting the bars while they are still warm can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool fully in the pan before slicing.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Stir just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
- Forgetting Parchment Paper: Skipping parchment paper may lead to sticking. Line your baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds until warm, but not hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat; cover and heat, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars.
How do I customize my 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars?
You can add mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and nutrition. Experiment with your favorites!
Can I use different nut butters in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer or have allergies.
Are these bars suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These bars are great for meal prep as they store well and are easy to grab on busy days.
What should I serve with my apple oatmeal bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with yogurt or fresh fruit slices, making them a balanced snack or breakfast option.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are a fantastic snack that combines simplicity with deliciousness. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Try making these easy bars today!