Imagine sinking your teeth into a delectable dessert that's not just mind-blowingly delicious, but also secretly nutritious! These Healthy Small Batch Apple Crumble Bars are about to revolutionize your snacking game, offering the perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and wholesome goodness. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or just looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that doesn't compromise on flavor, these bars are your ultimate culinary solution. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for your recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 8 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spice evenly.
- Pour melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) into the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture becomes a cohesive, slightly crumbly dough that holds together when pressed.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright flavor.
- Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture into the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, even base layer. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the crust.
- Spread the diced apples evenly over the base layer. If using, sprinkle chopped nuts over the apple layer for added texture and nutrition.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the apples, creating a rustic, uneven topping that allows some apple pieces to peek through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. The cooling period helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire batch out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 8 even bars.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking.
- Ensure even moisture: The key to a perfect texture is balancing your wet and dry ingredients. Don't overmix the crumble base to maintain a nice, crumbly consistency.
- Prevent soggy bottoms: Make sure to press the base layer firmly and evenly to create a solid foundation that won't become mushy.
- Customize to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- Cooling is crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape and develop the perfect texture.
- Storage hack: These bars actually taste even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
