Oatmeal Apple Bars are the ultimate fall dessert, combining the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet, warm flavor of cinnamon-spiced apples. These bars feature a buttery oat crust and a gooey caramel filling that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With toasted pecans adding a delightful crunch, it’s comfort food at its best. Whether for a potluck or a cozy family gathering, these bars are perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Apple Bars

There are countless reasons to love these Oatmeal Apple Bars. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a great option for busy weeknights. Second, they combine the delightful flavors of apples and oats, creating a warm and inviting treat. These bars are also a Healthy Oatmeal Apple Snack, packed with nutrients and fibers. You can easily customize them, making gluten-free options or adding your favorite nuts and spices. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness throughout the week. Lastly, they are a sure crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

Ingredients for Oatmeal Apple Bars

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 cups apples (about 2-3 apples, peeled and thinly sliced, Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade plus more for topping)
½ cup pecans (toasted and roughly chopped, plus more for topping)

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, one teaspoon cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir with a fork until crumbly.
Step 3: Press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, reserving the remaining crumble. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven.
Step 4: Combine the apple slices, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and the remaining half-teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Step 5: Spread the apple filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Drizzle a half cup of caramel sauce over apples. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture and toasted pecans evenly across the caramel sauce.
Step 6: Bake at 350°F for an additional 25-30 minutes or until topping is golden and apples are tender.
Step 7: Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and more pecans before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Apple Bars

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for holidays and potlucks.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Ensure apples are thinly sliced for even cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Oatmeal Apple Bars

These Oat Apple Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pair them with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great addition to breakfast, served alongside yogurt or a smoothie, providing a nutritious start to your day.

How to Store and Reheat Oatmeal Apple Bars

To store your Oatmeal Apple Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven, ensuring they are heated through before serving. These bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oatmeal Apple Bars

What are Oatmeal Apple Bars?

Oatmeal Apple Bars are a delicious dessert made with oats, apples, and caramel, creating a chewy and flavorful treat. They are perfect for fall gatherings!

Can I make Oatmeal Apple Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these bars ahead of time. Simply bake and cool them, then store in an airtight container. They taste delicious even after a few days!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Oatmeal Apple Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and slice the apples thinly. This will ensure even baking and the perfect texture!

Variations of Oatmeal Apple Bars You Can Try

There are several fun variations of these Homemade Oatmeal Apple Dessert bars that you can try:

Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
Incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries for added sweetness.
Substitute some of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
For a vegan version, swap the butter for coconut oil and use a plant-based caramel sauce.

Oatmeal Apple Bars: 12 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge - Oatmeal Apple Bars - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast!

Oatmeal Apple Bars: 12 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge

Author: basmer
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These oatmeal apple bars with caramel and pecans are a soft and chewy fall dessert. They feature a buttery oat crust, gooey caramel, and cinnamon-spiced apples.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, one teaspoon cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir with a fork until crumbly.
Press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, reserving the remaining crumble. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven.
Combine the apple slices, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and the remaining half-teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Spread the apple filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Drizzle a half cup of caramel sauce over apples. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture and toasted pecans over the caramel sauce.
Bake at 350°F for an additional 25-30 minutes or until topping is golden and apples are tender.
Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and more pecans before serving.