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When it comes to baking, the texture of your final product can significantly depend on how you mix your ingredients. For the Cinnamon-Swirled Oatmeal Apple Snack Squares, gentle mixing is crucial to maintain the tenderness of the squares. Overworking the batter can lead to a tough texture, which is the last thing you want in a delicious snack.

Oatmeal Apple Snack Squares

Discover a delicious and nutritious way to snack with Cinnamon-Swirled Oatmeal Apple Snack Squares. These easy-to-make treats combine wholesome rolled oats, fresh apples, and honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, they are packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Learn how to create these satisfying squares that promote healthy eating while still indulging your sweet tooth. Embrace healthier snacking today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, your choice of honey or maple syrup, almond butter (or peanut butter), and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are completely blended and smooth.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until they are well distributed.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined, taking care not to over-mix. Gently fold in the diced apple and, if you're using them, the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly incorporated throughout the batter.

          Transfer to Pan: Pour the oatmeal batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an appealing finish.

            Add Cinnamon Swirl (Optional): For an enhanced cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a mixture of 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of honey over the top of the batter. Using a knife, lightly swirl this mixture through the top layer to create a visually appealing cinnamon pattern.

              Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares of your desired size.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy these delicious oatmeal squares warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a delightful snack or nutritious breakfast option on the go!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 16 squares