Healthy Apple Pie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple pie bars are a lighter alternative to traditional pie while still delivering the warm spices and sweet-tart apple flavor you crave. They’re naturally sweetened, made with whole grains, and perfect for make-ahead treats. Easy to cut and serve, they’re great for potlucks, holidays, or a quick afternoon bite with coffee or tea.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats

• Whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour blend)

• Coconut sugar or brown sugar

• Coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• Salt

• Honey or maple syrup

• Apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith), peeled and diced

• Lemon juice

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted coconut oil until crumbly.

3. Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.

4. In another bowl, toss diced apples with honey, lemon juice, and vanilla.

5. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.

6. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top as a crumble.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

8. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars. Preparation takes 15 minutes, baking requires 35–40 minutes, and cooling adds another 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble for crunch.

• Use pears instead of apples for a seasonal twist.

• Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.

• Swap maple syrup with date syrup for a different natural sweetener.

• Drizzle with a light yogurt glaze for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a certified gluten-free flour blend and oats.

What apples work best?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well during baking.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide better texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer filling, but you can leave the skin on for extra fiber.

Can I use almond flour instead of wheat flour?

Yes, almond flour adds a nutty flavor but will make the crust slightly softer.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they can be baked a day in advance and stored in the fridge until serving.

Are these bars kid-friendly?

Absolutely, they’re naturally sweetened and made with wholesome ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.

How do I know when they’re done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender and bubbling.

Can I serve these warm?

Yes, they’re delicious warm with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or ice cream.

Conclusion

Healthy apple pie bars are a cozy, nourishing dessert that’s easy to make and share. With their spiced apple filling, oat crust, and crumb topping, they’re a lighter but equally satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a wholesome snack, these bars are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

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