Name: Baked Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; ½ cup unsweetened applesauce; ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; ¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅓ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans); ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates); Optional: chocolate chips, shredded coconut

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There’s something magical about Baked Oatmeal Bars—they’re cozy like oatmeal but portable like a granola bar. Perfect for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even dessert with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter.

This recipe was inspired by those chilly mornings when my grandmother would have warm oatmeal ready on the stove. I loved it, but as life got busier, I needed something I could prep ahead and grab on the go. These bars are just that—comforting, nourishing, and endlessly customizable.

🌟 Why You’ll Love These Baked Oatmeal Bars

Meal prep-friendly: Make a batch and enjoy all week.
Customizable: Switch up the add-ins based on what you love or have on hand.
Naturally sweetened: No refined sugar here.
Kid-approved: Great for school lunches or after-school snacks.
Balanced energy: Fiber, protein, and healthy fats in every bite.

Baked Oatmeal Bars cut into squares and stacked with oats and dried fruit visible. — Soft, hearty, and ready to grab—Baked Oatmeal Bars for any time!

🥣 Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned oats
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
Optional: chocolate chips, shredded coconut

🔥 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, honey, milk, eggs, and vanilla.

Step 3: Add the Dry

Stir in oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
Fold in nuts, dried fruit, and any extras like chocolate chips.

Step 4: Bake

Pour mixture into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until set and golden on top.

Step 5: Cool & Slice

Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Close-up of golden Baked Oatmeal Bars with a rustic texture and oatmeal topping. — Healthy meets delicious—Baked Oatmeal Bars made simple.

🔁 Substitutions & Variations

Egg-free: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Nut-free: Leave out nuts or sub with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Lower sugar: Skip the dried fruit and add extra cinnamon or fresh fruit like grated apple.
Dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk.

🧊 Storage Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual bars wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave briefly before eating.
On-the-go tip: Wrap bars in parchment for easy transport in lunchboxes or bags.

🍴 Perfect Pairings

Breakfast: Serve with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, or a smoothie.
Snack time: Pair with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Dessert: Warm slightly and drizzle with almond butter or honey.

❓ FAQ: Baked Oatmeal Bars

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and slightly less chewy.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a 9×13-inch pan and increase bake time by 5–10 minutes.

How do I keep them from being too dry?
Make sure not to overbake. You can also add a splash more milk or applesauce for extra moisture.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes! In fact, they taste even better the next day.

🧡 A Hug in Bar Form

These Baked Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate blend of wholesome and delicious. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a healthy treat to share, this recipe delivers every time.

Baked Oatmeal Bars