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Apple spice granola bars
Aubree

Apple Spice Granola Bars

Chewy granola bars capture the essence of autumn with dried apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of maple.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 Bars
Course: Snack
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats
  • 1 cup Puffed Rice Cereal (or crispied rice)
  • 1/2 cup Dried Apples Finely Chopped
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup or Honey
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Optional
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter or Coconut Oil
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans Optional
  • 1/4 cup Mini Chocolate Chips or Raisins Optional

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Saucepan
  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 8x8-inch Baking Pan
  • Parchment Paper
  • 1 Rubber Spatula
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons
  • 1 Knife & Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter (or coconut oil) over medium heat. Stir in applesauce, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat until just bubbling, then remove from heat.
  3. In a large bowl, combine oats, puffed rice, dried apples, and nuts (if using).
  4. Pour warm mixture over dry ingredients. Stir until evenly coated. Fold in chocolate chips or raisins if desired.
  5. Press mixture firmly into prepared pan using a spatula or damp hands.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until edges are golden and center is set.
  7. Cool completely in pan before slicing into bars.

Notes

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.

Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins

  • Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
  • Vegan: Use coconut oil and maple syrup.
  • Nut-Free: Skip nuts or use sunflower seeds.
  • Fruit Variations: Try dried cranberries, pears, or chopped dates.
  • Spice Boost: Add ground ginger or cloves for extra warmth.