Starting my day with a nutritious breakfast has always been a priority, and these Apple Walnut Oat Breakfast Bars have become my go-to morning solution. Drawing inspiration from traditional American farmhouse recipes and modern nutritional science, I’ve perfected these bars to deliver both satisfaction and sustained energy throughout your morning.
A Brief History of Breakfast Bars
The concept of breakfast bars emerged in the 1960s when busy Americans sought convenient yet nutritious breakfast options. Today, I’ve reimagined this classic convenience food with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, fresh apples, and heart-healthy walnuts, creating a perfect balance of natural sweetness and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
These breakfast bars combine the warming comfort of apple pie with the nutritional benefits of oatmeal. The natural sweetness from fresh apples and honey pairs perfectly with protein-rich walnuts and fiber-packed oats, creating a breakfast that keeps you satisfied until lunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups (150g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (96g) almond flour
- 1 teaspoon (2.6g) ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon (2.3g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (2.5g) salt
Wet and Fresh Ingredients
- 1 large apple (about 200g), grated
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup (85g) honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup (60ml) coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation Phase
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Line an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
- Grate the apple using the large holes of a box grater
- Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt
- Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agents
- Combining Wet Ingredients
- Add the grated apple to the dry mixture
- Fold in the chopped walnuts
- Pour in the honey or maple syrup
- Add the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined and evenly moistened
- Baking Process
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish
- Using the back of a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan
- Ensure corners are well-packed to prevent crumbling
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and edges start to crisp
- Cooling and Storage
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan (approximately 30 minutes)
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block out of the pan
- Cut into 12 equal bars
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats for better texture
- Choose a firm, sweet-tart apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
- Toast the walnuts beforehand for enhanced flavor
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well
Nutrition Information
Per bar (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 185
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 98mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 4g
Time Requirements
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These bars are perfect for meal prep. You can store them:
- At room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- In the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
- In the freezer for up to 3 months (wrap individually)
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan option
- Add ¼ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness
- Include chia seeds or flax seeds for additional omega-3s
These Apple Walnut Oat Breakfast Bars are not just another breakfast option – they’re a nutritious, delicious way to start your day right. Whether you’re rushing to work or planning a leisurely breakfast, these bars deliver both convenience and nutrition in every bite.
