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Easy No-Bake Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars

easy no bake apple cinnamon granola bars - featured image

These no-bake granola bars combine fresh apple bits with warm cinnamon and nut butter for a quick, wholesome snack perfect for busy days. They are easy to make, require no oven, and are loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats
  • 1 large apple, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1/2 cup (125 g) creamy almond or peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and finely chop one large apple to about a 1/4-inch dice. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon, chia seeds (if using), salt, and any optional nuts or dried fruit. Stir well.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, gently heat nut butter and honey or maple syrup for 20-30 seconds until runny. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
  4. Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Add the chopped apples. Stir until all oats are coated and mixture begins to stick together, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press down firmly with hands or spatula.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
  7. Lift the set mixture out using parchment overhang and slice into 8-10 bars with a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Chilling the bars for at least 1 hour is crucial for them to set properly. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to avoid crumbly bars. If mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon or two of water or extra honey; if too sticky, add more oats. Fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. Store bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake granola bars, apple cinnamon bars, healthy snacks, easy granola bars, kid-friendly snacks, no oven snacks