3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

Soft and chewy apple oatmeal bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. With just three simple ingredients, these 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are not only easy to make but also delicious. Ideal as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert, they offer a wholesome way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of applesauce and peanut butter creates a rich flavor while rolled oats provide a hearty texture. You can easily customize these bars with your favorite mix-ins for extra fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time—only five minutes!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made from natural ingredients, these bars are a healthier choice.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even a dessert.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands and picky eaters alike.
• Customizable: Add in your favorite nuts or dried fruits to tailor them to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Baking pan (8 inch by 8 inch)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy combining of all ingredients without spills.
• Spatula: Great for smoothing the batter into the baking pan and ensuring even cooking.
• Baking pan: An 8 inch by 8 inch pan is perfect for achieving the ideal thickness of these bars.

Ingredients

To create these delightful apple oatmeal bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Bars

• 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 prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce and unsweetened natural peanut butter. Stir until fully mixed and uniform in color. Then, add in the rolled oats, stirring until evenly combined. If desired, add any mix-ins at this stage.

Step 3: Prepare to Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan and smooth out the surface.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes or until the bars appear set and cooked through. Allow them to cool completely before removing from the pan. Cut into squares and serve. Store any uneaten bars in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

These 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a snack, or even for dessert, there are plenty of creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Breakfast Ideas

• With Yogurt: Pair the bars with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
• Fruit Topping: Slice fresh fruits like bananas or berries on top for extra flavor and nutrients.

Snack Options

• Nut Butter Spread: Spread a thin layer of almond or cashew butter on the bars for a satisfying snack.
• Trail Mix Crumble: Crumble the bars into a bowl and mix with your favorite trail mix for a crunchy treat.

Dessert Suggestions

• Ice Cream Side: Serve warm bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars to elevate their sweetness.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars, follow these simple tips. They will help ensure your bars turn out soft and chewy every time.

• Use Fresh Applesauce: Opt for homemade or high-quality applesauce for the best flavor.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements will help maintain the proper texture; too much oats can lead to dry bars.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that the peanut butter and applesauce are well combined before adding oats for even distribution.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them from the oven when they look set will keep them chewy.
• Cool Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely before slicing to prevent them from crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

These apple oatmeal bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors and provide balanced nutrition. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy and protein-rich, Greek yogurt pairs well with these oatmeal bars.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of fruits adds freshness and brightness to your meal.
3. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts offers crunch and healthy fats alongside your sweet treat.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl can serve as a great accompaniment, providing vitamins and hydration.
5. Cottage Cheese: This high-protein option is perfect when served with sliced peaches or pineapples.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chia pudding delivers a nutritious boost when enjoyed next to oatmeal bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few mistakes while preparing your 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Boldly skip measuring: Not measuring ingredients can lead to inconsistent results. Always use a measuring cup for accuracy.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the bars tough. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Boldly ignore cooling time: Cutting into the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely in the pan.
• Boldly choose the wrong oats: Using instant oats may affect the texture. Stick with rolled oats for the best results.
• Boldly forget about customization: Not experimenting with add-ins like nuts or dried fruits misses out on flavor possibilities. Get creative with mix-ins!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep bars separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• These bars can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying your 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars.

Can I use flavored applesauce?

Yes, flavored applesauce can add extra taste, but ensure it’s not overly sweetened.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Substitute rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.

What are some good mix-ins for these bars?

Try adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

These 3 Ingredient Apple Oatmeal Bars are not only simple to prepare but also versatile. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. They work perfectly as a breakfast option, snack, or light dessert. Give them a try today!