Apple cinnamon breakfast bars bring together everything comforting about fall flavors in a wholesome, portable form. Soft-baked oats, fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and just the right touch of sweetness come together to create a breakfast option that feels homemade, satisfying, and nourishing—without requiring much morning effort. These bars are ideal for meal prep, school lunches, grab-and-go breakfasts, or even a cozy afternoon snack with coffee.
What makes these bars stand out is their balance of texture and flavor. Each bite delivers tender apple pieces, hearty oats, and the familiar aroma of cinnamon that instantly feels warming and nostalgic. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, these bars are easy enough for everyday baking yet delicious enough to become a regular part of your breakfast routine.
Why These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars Work So Well
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Naturally sweetened with apples, honey, and a touch of brown sugar
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Soft and chewy with a crisp top
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Perfect for meal prep—they store beautifully
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Packed with fiber and whole grains
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Kid-approved flavor that adults also enjoy
They’re the perfect combination of nutrition and indulgence.
Equipment You’ll Need
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Spatula
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8×8-inch baking dish
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Parchment paper
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
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Small saucepan (optional for melting butter or warming honey)
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Dry Ingredients
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2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
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1 cup finely diced apples (Honeycrisp or Gala)
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2 large eggs
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⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
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¼ cup light brown sugar
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½ cup unsweetened applesauce
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¼ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
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¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
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1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed
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A drizzle of glaze (powdered sugar + milk)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: 40–45 minutes
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Servings: 9 breakfast bars
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Step 1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy lifting. Grease lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, honey, brown sugar, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the diced apples.
The apples add natural sweetness and moisture, which keeps the bars tender without needing excessive fat or sugar.
Step 4. Bring Everything Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Add any optional mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
The batter will be thick—this is what helps the bars hold their shape.
Step 5. Bake
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
Let cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Step 6. Slice & Store
Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
These bars hold up beautifully for meal prep and don’t dry out easily.
Tips for Perfect Breakfast Bars
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Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji to prevent sogginess.
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Don’t substitute quick oats, as they won’t hold structure as well.
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Let the bars cool fully before slicing for cleaner cuts.
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Add nuts for crunch and extra healthy fats.
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Warm slightly before eating for a freshly baked flavor.
Flavor Variations
Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars
Add a light oat crumble topping for extra texture.
Carrot Apple Morning Bars
Fold in ½ cup grated carrot for extra nutrition.
Apple Pie Bars
Swap honey for maple syrup and increase cinnamon for a deeper spice note.
Protein Breakfast Bars
Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and add an extra tablespoon of milk if needed.
Serving Suggestions
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Enjoy with Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast.
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Pair with a warm chai latte or apple cider.
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Add a drizzle of almond butter for richness.
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Serve as a lunchbox snack or after-school treat.
How to Store and Freeze
Refrigerator
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Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer
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Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
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Thaw overnight or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
Nutritional Facts (Approx., Per Bar)
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Calories: 160–190
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Carbohydrates: 26–30 g
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Protein: 3–4 g
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Total Fat: 5–7 g
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Fiber: 3–4 g
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Sugar: 12–16 g
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Sodium: 90–140 mg
For mornings when you want something easy and satisfying, Sheet Pan Frittata, Shakshuka Recipe or Frittata Cups are great options.
Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy lifting. Grease lightly to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, honey, brown sugar, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the diced apples.
- The apples add natural sweetness and moisture, which keeps the bars tender without needing excessive fat or sugar.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Add any optional mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
- The batter will be thick—this is what helps the bars hold their shape.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
- Let cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- These bars hold up beautifully for meal prep and don’t dry out easily.
Conclusion
Apple cinnamon breakfast bars are the perfect balance of flavor, convenience, and wholesome ingredients. They offer that cozy, spiced apple flavor we all love while delivering a nutritious start to your day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, packing lunchboxes, or simply wanting a homemade grab-and-go breakfast, these bars make mornings easier—and more delicious.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats provide structure and chewiness. Quick oats make the bars softer and more crumbly.
2. What apples are best for these bars?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady all work well due to their firmness and natural sweetness.
3. Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut oil instead of butter and ensure any glaze ingredients are dairy-free.
4. How do I prevent the bars from falling apart?
Allow them to cool fully and avoid reducing the eggs or oats.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a 9×13-inch pan and bake for an extra 5–8 minutes.
6. Are these bars good for kids?
Yes, they’re naturally sweetened, soft, nutritious, and great for school snacks.