If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously wholesome snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe. These bars pack a perfect blend of chewy oats, sweet dried apples, and just the right hint of cinnamon, making them an irresistible treat any time of the day. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a school lunchbox winner, or an after-workout pick-me-up, these no-bake granola bars are not only easy to make but also bring comfort and natural sweetness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often make the best snacks, and this Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe is no exception. Each component plays a vital role, from adding texture to boosting flavor and providing that cozy aroma that cinnamon lovers adore.
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base that offers chewiness and fiber for a satisfying crunch.
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal: Adds a light, airy texture to keep the bars from being too dense.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these bars their signature warm flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup dried apples (chopped): Provides natural sweetness and fruity bursts in every bite.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds nutty richness and a crunchy surprise — easily swapped or omitted for nut-free options.
- â…“ cup honey or maple syrup: The natural sweetener that brings everything together with sticky goodness.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Deepens the caramel notes and complements the apples and cinnamon beautifully.
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the bars moist and adds subtle apple flavor without extra sweetness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil: Binds ingredients while adding richness and a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the taste with a smooth, aromatic finish.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This little step makes all the difference later when you want to lift the bars out with ease—no sticky business, just smooth slices.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the oats, puffed rice cereal, ground cinnamon, salt, chopped dried apples, and your choice of nuts if you’re adding them. This mix will be the hearty foundation of your bars.
Step 3: Heat the Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, applesauce, and your choice of butter or coconut oil. Stir constantly as the mixture warms and just begins to bubble—this melting moment ensures your bars will hold together beautifully.
Step 4: Blend Everything Together
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then pour this warm, gooey mixture over your dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly so every oat and apple morsel gets a nice coating—this is where magic happens.
Step 5: Press and Chill
Transfer the sticky mix into your prepared pan and press it down firmly. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to pack it tight; this step is key for bars that hold their shape. Then pop the pan into the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours until the bars are set and ready to slice.
Step 6: Slice Into Bars
Once chilled and firm, carefully lift the block out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into 12 bars and get ready to enjoy your homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or drizzle with a thin line of honey for an eye-catching, tasty finish. Adding a few extra chopped nuts or dried apple bits can make your bars look even more inviting and add a little crunch right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair your granola bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack that feels wholesome and satisfying. A cup of hot tea or coffee is a perfect companion, bringing out the warm cinnamon tones in the bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual bars in parchment paper or colorful wax paper tied with string for easy grab-and-go snacks. You might also layer them with sliced apples and a smear of nut butter on a platter for a shareable afternoon treat that sparks joy and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay chewy and delicious for up to a week, making it easy to snack thoughtfully throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to plan even further ahead, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to two months frozen, perfect for busy days when you need a quick and healthy nibble.
Reheating
To enjoy your bars warm, simply unwrap and microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The gentle heat will revive their softness and release those comforting flavors, almost like fresh-baked granola bars all over again.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They add a similar crunch and nutritional boost without allergens.
Is it possible to use a different sweetener?
Yes! If you prefer, use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown rice syrup. Just make sure to keep the total liquid sweetener amount the same for binding purposes.
How long do these granola bars last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the granola bars remain fresh for about a week. Refrigeration can extend their life by a few days if your kitchen is warm.
Can I add other dried fruits to this recipe?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins work wonderfully and add a pop of color and extra sweetness. Just keep the quantity similar to the dried apples for balance.
Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Yes, these Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe make a fantastic breakfast option, especially when paired with a glass of milk or some yogurt. They’re nourishing, portable, and provide a nice energy boost to start your day.
Final Thoughts
Once you dive into this Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe, you’ll quickly discover how easy and rewarding it is to make your own wholesome snacks at home. The delightful combination of apples, cinnamon, and oats is timeless and comforting. So gather your ingredients, get started, and enjoy every delicious bite of these homemade bars that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen and snack rotation!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars are a wholesome, no-bake snack perfect for a quick energy boost. Made with oats, puffed rice cereal, dried apples, and a touch of cinnamon, they combine natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Easy to prepare and customizable with nuts or seeds, these bars make a nutritious treat ideal for school lunches or on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dried apples, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- â…“ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the baking pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to make removal of the bars easy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, puffed rice cereal, ground cinnamon, salt, chopped dried apples, and nuts if using. Stir well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Heat wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, unsweetened applesauce, and butter or coconut oil. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble, ensuring the sugar dissolves and blends smoothly.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the mixture with warm flavor.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and sticky.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly for compact bars.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours or until the granola bars are firm and set fully.
- Cut and serve: Once firm, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and cut into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit nuts or substitute with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
- To add a touch of indulgence, fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips after the mixture cools slightly but before pressing into the pan.
- These bars keep well refrigerated for up to a week or can be frozen for longer storage.
