Indulge in the delightful taste of autumn any time of year with these incredibly wholesome and delicious Apple Oatmeal Bars. Each bar is a symphony of textures and flavors, featuring a tender, buttery, shortbread-like crust, generously topped with a warm, spiced apple filling, and finished with a perfectly crispy, golden oatmeal crumble. Designed for individual enjoyment, these bars are not only a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast option but also an ideal anytime snack or a satisfying dessert. Best of all, they are meticulously crafted to be 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them a superb choice for a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture.

Versatile Apple Oat Bars: Perfect for Any Occasion!

As apple season arrives, bringing with it a bounty of fresh, crisp fruit, these apple oatmeal bars become an absolute kitchen essential. Their incredible versatility means they can effortlessly transition from a fulfilling quick breakfast to a delightful afternoon snack, or even a sophisticated delicious dessert. Imagine a warm bar, fresh from the oven, perhaps with a generous drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence – truly a treat for the senses!

Unlike a traditional apple pie that requires plates and forks, these conveniently sized bars offer all the comforting flavors in a handheld format. The robust base of a buttery shortbread crust provides a sturdy foundation, perfectly complemented by the luscious, tender apple filling infused with aromatic spices. Crowning it all is a layer of golden, crunchy crumble, adding an irresistible texture that makes every bite simply divine. These apple oat bars truly embody the essence of home-baked goodness.

Why You’ll Adore These Apple Oatmeal Bars:

These apple oatmeal bars aren’t just another recipe; they’re a revelation for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome, and accommodating treats. Here’s why they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortless Simplicity with Common Ingredients: You don’t need to embark on a scavenger hunt for obscure items. The core ingredients for these apple and oatmeal bars are readily available at your local grocery store. Think wholesome pantry staples like oats, fresh apples, sugar, and a few key spices. This means less time searching and more time baking, making them perfect for even impromptu baking sessions.
• Surprisingly Easy to Prepare: Don’t let the multi-layered appearance fool you; making these breakfast bars is remarkably uncomplicated. While there are a few distinct steps – preparing the crust, the filling, and the crumble – each stage is straightforward and requires minimal effort. It’s an accessible recipe for bakers of all skill levels, delivering all the comforting flavors of an apple pie in a much simpler, individual bar form. You’ll feel like a culinary wizard without all the fuss!
• Completely Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan: This is truly one of the standout features of this recipe. These oat bars are meticulously crafted to be 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This makes them a fantastic dessert or snack option for almost everyone. Whether you’re navigating Celiac disease, gluten or lactose intolerances, or simply adhering to a plant-based diet, these bars ensure that deliciousness is accessible to all, free from common allergens or animal products.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Their robust nature means these bars hold up beautifully, making them an excellent candidate for weekly meal prep. Bake a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have wholesome breakfasts and snacks ready to grab for the entire week, saving you time and ensuring you always have a healthy option on hand.

Essential Ingredients for Your Apple Oatmeal Bars:

Crafting these delectable apple oatmeal bars starts with a selection of readily available and wholesome ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need, categorized for clarity. For precise quantities, please refer to the detailed printable recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.

For the Buttery Crust:

• Gluten-Free Quick Oats: The star of our wholesome crust. These oats, when processed into a fine flour, create a tender yet sturdy base. If you have Celiac disease, ensure they are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a crucial binding agent, providing structure to the crust and ensuring it holds its shape beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Essential for that rich, “buttery” flavor and texture, making the crust melt-in-your-mouth delicious while keeping the recipe vegan and dairy-free.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and bringing depth to the crust.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, warm aroma and a touch of sweetness, elevating the overall taste profile of the crust.

For the Spiced Apple Filling:

• Red Apples: Peeled and diced into small cubes, these form the heart of our filling. Red apples tend to be sweeter and soften nicely, but green apples offer a tart counterpoint.
• Cornstarch: Crucial for thickening the apple filling, preventing it from becoming too watery and ensuring a cohesive texture.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a rich, molasses-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples and spices, creating a comforting, caramelized flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: The quintessential apple spice, offering warmth and a classic aromatic note that defines apple desserts.
• Ground Nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg complements the cinnamon, adding a subtle, earthy spice that makes the apple filling truly shine.

For the Crispy Crumble Topping:

• Gluten-Free Quick Oats: These remain whole in the crumble, providing that irresistible chewy and crispy texture. Again, certified gluten-free is key for dietary restrictions.
• Cornstarch: Helps in creating a crispier crumble texture and prevents it from becoming too dense.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes to the crumble’s golden-brown color and its deep, sweet flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon: Reinforces the spiced theme, tying the crumble topping harmoniously with the apple filling.
• Salt: A small amount is vital for enhancing the sweetness and rounding out the flavors in the topping.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Binds the crumble ingredients together, facilitating that coveted crumbly, golden texture when baked.

Recipe Notes & Smart Substitutions:

Achieving perfect apple oatmeal bars is easy when you understand the role of each ingredient and know your substitution options. Here are some detailed notes and alternatives:

• Oats – Purity and Preparation:
  • For individuals with Celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it is absolutely essential to use certified gluten-free quick oats. While oats are naturally free from gluten, they are frequently processed in facilities that also handle wheat, barley, and rye, leading to a high risk of cross-contamination.
  • For the crust, you’ll need oat flour. You can easily make your own by processing quick oats in a food processor or high-speed blender until a fine flour consistency is achieved. Alternatively, to save time and ensure consistency, you can use store-bought certified gluten-free oat flour.
  • For the crumble topping, quick oats are used whole to provide texture. Do not process them into flour for the topping.
• Cornstarch – The Essential Thickener and Binder:
  • Cornstarch is critical in this recipe, acting as a powerful binding agent for the crust and a thickener for the apple filling, ensuring everything holds together beautifully.
  • If you have a corn allergy or prefer an alternative, excellent substitutes include arrowroot starch or tapioca starch. Use them in the same quantities as cornstarch.
• Butter – Dairy-Free for Inclusivity:
  • To ensure these bars remain dairy-free and vegan, I’ve used dairy-free butter. Many excellent plant-based butter brands are available that mimic the taste and texture of traditional butter remarkably well.
  • If dairy is not an issue for your diet, feel free to substitute with regular unsalted butter in equal amounts.
• Vanilla Extract – A Touch of Aroma:
  • A dash of vanilla extract imparts a lovely, warm fragrance and subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • However, if vanilla isn’t your preference, or you simply don’t have it on hand, it can be omitted without significantly altering the core taste.
• Sugar Choices – Sweetness Tailored to You:
  • I opted for brown sugar in this recipe for its moistness and slight molasses flavor, which beautifully complements the apples and spices.
  • For the crust and crumble, you can also use granulated cane sugar or white sugar if you prefer a less pronounced molasses note or lighter color.
• Spices – Freshness Makes a Difference:
  • The aromatic heart of the apple filling and crumble comes from ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg. For the most vibrant and potent flavor, I highly recommend using freshly ground spices if possible.
  • Pre-ground spices are perfectly fine and will still deliver delicious results, but check their freshness for optimal aroma.
• Apples – Pick Your Perfect Pome:
  • I typically use red apples for their sweetness and ability to soften beautifully, creating a tender filling. Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp are great choices.
  • If you prefer a tarter filling with a bit more bite, green apples like Granny Smith are an excellent alternative. They hold their shape well and provide a pleasant contrast to the sweet crust and crumble.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Own Apple Oatmeal Bars:

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan apple oatmeal bars. Each step is designed to be clear and easy to follow, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome.

Step 1: Cream Together Wet Ingredients for the Crust. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened dairy-free butter together with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This aeration is key to a tender crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Oat Flour. If you don’t have store-bought oat flour, process the certified gluten-free quick oats in a food processor or high-speed blender until you achieve a very fine, flour-like consistency. This step is crucial for the texture of the crust. (Alternatively, if using pre-made gluten-free oat flour, skip this step).

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients for the Crust. To the creamed mixture, add the finely processed oats (or oat flour), cornstarch, and salt. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are just combined and you have a homogeneous, crumbly crust mixture. Be careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.

Step 4: Press Crust into Baking Pan. Transfer the prepared crust mixture into a 9″ x 9″ baking pan that has been neatly lined with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Press the mixture down firmly and evenly across the entire bottom of the pan to form a compact base.

Step 5: Pre-Bake the Crust. Bake the pressed crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes. The goal is a lightly golden-brown edge, indicating it’s partly cooked and set. Remove the pan from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Apple Filling. In a separate large bowl, combine the peeled and diced apples with cornstarch, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Toss everything together gently until the apples are thoroughly coated with the spices and sugar. This ensures even flavor distribution.

Step 7: Gently Cook the Apple Filling. Transfer the apple mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cornstarch thickens and the apples begin to soften, but ensure they retain some of their shape and don’t turn into a complete puree. This pre-cooking step concentrates the flavor and ensures the apples are tender in the final bars. Alternatively, for a quicker method, microwave the filling mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.

Step 8: Assemble the Crispy Crumble Topping. In another bowl, combine all the ingredients for the crumble topping: instant oats, cornstarch, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and dairy-free butter (ensure it’s softened but still firm). Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to gently mix these ingredients until you achieve a coarse, crumbly texture. It’s important NOT to overmix, as you want distinct crumbs, not a paste.

Step 9: Layer the Apple Filling. Carefully and evenly spread the cooled, cooked apple filling over the pre-baked crust in the baking pan. Make sure the layer is consistent so each bar gets a good amount of delicious apple.

Step 10: Add Crumble & Final Bake. Evenly sprinkle the prepared oat crumble topping over the apple filling. Ensure good coverage for that satisfying crispy layer. Bake the bars for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble topping is beautifully golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.

Step 11: Cool, Cut & Serve. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This is crucial for clean, neat slices as the filling needs time to set. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Cut into individual bars. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle with dairy-free caramel sauce (optional, but highly recommended!). Serve and enjoy!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips:

To ensure your delicious apple oatmeal bars stay fresh and delightful, follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. While they are safe, the crunchiness of the crumble might slightly diminish over time.
• Refrigeration: For extended freshness, especially in warmer climates, you can refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to one week. Bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best experience.
• Freezing for Later: These bars freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Make-Ahead: The apple filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The oat flour for the crust can also be processed ahead of time. This can help streamline your baking process on the day you plan to assemble and bake the bars.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Oatmeal Bars:

These versatile bars are wonderful on their own, but a few additions can elevate them to an even more impressive treat:

• Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a warm bar with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: As mentioned, a generous drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce is always a winner.
• Nut Butter Swirl: For an extra protein boost and nutty flavor, add a swirl of almond or cashew butter on top, especially for breakfast.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar makes them look extra special, perfect for entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Can I use different fruits? Absolutely! While apples are classic, you can experiment with other firm fruits like pears, peaches (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained), or even a berry mix. Adjust sugar and cornstarch as needed based on the fruit’s natural sweetness and juiciness.
• How can I make the crumble topping extra crispy? Ensure your dairy-free butter is cold when preparing the crumble, then work it quickly into the dry ingredients. Don’t overmix. Also, a slightly longer bake time (watching carefully) can enhance crispiness.
• My crust is too crumbly/too hard, what went wrong? If it’s too crumbly, your butter might not have been soft enough, or you might need a tiny bit more moisture (e.g., a teaspoon of plant milk). If it’s too hard, it might have been overmixed or over-baked. Ensure you press it firmly but not excessively.
• Can I use steel-cut oats? No, steel-cut oats are much denser and require longer cooking times. Quick oats are essential for both the oat flour (as they process easily) and the crumble (for a pleasant chewiness).
• Are these good for breakfast? Yes, these bars are packed with fiber from oats and fruit, making them a satisfying and delicious option for breakfast, especially when you’re on the go.

Other Irresistible Breakfast and Dessert Bars You’ll Love:

• Strawberry Crumble Bars (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Raspberry Oatmeal Bars (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Apple Pie Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Cranberry Bliss Bars (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

More Delicious Gluten-Free Apple Recipes to Enjoy:

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!

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Apple Oatmeal Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 55 minutes
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  Yield: 9 bars 1x
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  Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These apple oatmeal bars are a combination of a delicious crust, topped with tender spiced apples and a crispy oatmeal topping, in individual sizes that make them a great grab-and-go breakfast or an anytime snack. Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan too.

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Ingredients

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For the Crust:

• 1 cup gluten-free quick oats, processed (or oat flour)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup dairy-free butter (1 stick)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 red apples, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup gluten-free quick oats
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dairy-free butter

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Instructions

1. Beat Butter, Sugar & Vanilla: In a bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
2. Process Oats to Get Flour: Process the gluten-free quick oats in a food processor or high-speed blender to get a fine oat flour. (Alternatively, you can use store-bought gluten-free oat flour instead.)
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the finely processed oats (or oat flour), cornstarch, and salt. Mix until combined to get a homogeneous crust mixture.
4. Press Crust Mixture into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into a 9″ x 9″ baking pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake Crust: Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
6. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the diced apples with cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
7. Cook Until Cornstarch Thickens: Cook the apple mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until the cornstarch thickens, but keep the apples from turning into puree. Alternatively, you can microwave the filling mixture for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.
8. Prepare Crumble Topping: In a bowl, combine all the crumble ingredients: instant oats, cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter. Gently mix until you get a coarse crumb; do NOT overmix.
9. Spread Apple Filling Over Crust: Spread the apple filling evenly over the baked crust.
10. Top With Crumble Mixture: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool, cut into bars, drizzle with dairy-free caramel sauce (optional but highly recommended!) and serve.

Notes

Oats: If you are Celiac, make sure to use certified gluten-free quick oats (this is because while oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often processed in the same facilities as gluten-containing grains, so there is the risk of cross contamination). Alternatively, instead of processing your own oat flour, you can also use store-bought certified gluten-free oat flour instead.

Cornstarch: Cornstarch adds extra binding power to bind the ingredients together. Alternatively, if you are allergic to corn, you can also use arrowroot starch or tapioca starch instead.

Butter: I used dairy-free butter to keep this recipe dairy-free. Alternatively, if you are not lactose-intolerant, go ahead and use regular butter instead.

Vanilla Extract: I like adding a bit of vanilla extract for flavor. However, if you aren’t a fan of vanilla, go ahead and leave it out instead.

Brown Sugar: I used brown sugar, but you can also use cane sugar or white sugar if you prefer.

Spices: For flavor, I’ve used ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg. Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor, if not pre-ground spices will work too.

Apples: I used red apples here, but go ahead and use green apples if you prefer.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins
• Category: Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American