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In the world of wholesome snacks, few treats can rival the delightful combination of apple, cinnamon, and oats. Welcome to the realm of Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Snack Squares—a scrumptious and nutritious option that satisfies sweet cravings while providing essential nutrients. These snack squares not only serve as a delicious pick-me-up but also shine as a versatile food choice suitable for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or even packed into lunchboxes for a wholesome treat on the go.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Snack Squares

Discover the delicious blend of apple, cinnamon, and oats with these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Snack Squares! Perfect for breakfast, afternoon cravings, or as a nutritious treat in lunchboxes, these squares offer a delightful combination of flavors. Packed with rolled oats and fresh apples, they're not just tasty but also loaded with nutrients. Easy to make and versatile, they can be customized with nut butters or your favorite mix-ins for a satisfying snack anyone will love!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 medium apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

1/2 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – optional

1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries – optional

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing a slight overhang to assist with lifting the squares out later.

    Combine Dry Ingredients: In a sizeable mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and baking powder. Use a whisk or spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring the baking powder is evenly spread throughout the oats.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Add in the diced apple, and if you wish, also include the chopped nuts and dried fruit. Stir everything together until fully mixed, ensuring the oats are nicely moistened.

          Transfer to Baking Pan: Carefully pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, pressing down gently to compact the mixture.

            Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The edges should become golden brown, and the center should feel set. To check for doneness, you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

              Cool and Cut: After removing the pan from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment paper, lift the whole square out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares or bars.

                Store: You can enjoy your snack squares immediately or keep them stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate the squares.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 16 squares

                    - Presentation Tips: For a delightful presentation, serve the squares dusted with a light sprinkle of cinnamon and a few slices of fresh apple on the side. Enjoy!