Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars

🍏🌰 Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars 🍏🌰

What is it?
Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars are delicious and nutritious baked treats that make for a perfect breakfast or snack option. These bars are typically made with a combination of fresh apples, hearty oats, crunchy walnuts, and a touch of sweetness. They offer a convenient and portable way to enjoy the flavors of a wholesome breakfast on the go.

History:
The concept of breakfast bars or granola bars has been around for several decades, but the specific combination of apples and walnuts in breakfast bars likely emerged as part of the broader trend of creating healthier, homemade snack options in recent years. People have increasingly sought ways to make their own nutritious snacks to control ingredients and flavor profiles.

Components:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or a substitute like coconut oil)
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped apples (peeled and cored)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, melt the butter (or substitute) and then mix in the applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

5. Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts. This will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your bars.

6. Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for a while, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into bars or squares.

8. Enjoy: Your Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars are ready to enjoy! They can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

Time Needed:

• Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
• Baking Time: About 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: Allow at least 30 minutes for the bars to cool

These bars are not only tasty but also packed with fiber, protein, and the natural goodness of apples and walnuts. They make a wonderful addition to your breakfast routine or a satisfying snack any time of the day. 🍏🌰😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Total Fat: 8-10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
• Sodium: 100-150 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4 grams
  • Sugars: 12-15 grams
• Protein: 4-5 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calorie Content: Apple Walnut Breakfast Bars provide a reasonable calorie intake for a snack or breakfast option. They can help keep you satisfied and energized.

2. Good Source of Fiber: These bars contain whole wheat flour and oats, which are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

3. Healthy Fats: Walnuts provide healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. These fats can also contribute to a feeling of satiety.

4. Natural Sweetness: The sweetness in these bars mainly comes from applesauce and a small amount of brown sugar. This is a healthier alternative to refined sugars.

5. Nutrient-Rich: Apples add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the bars, including vitamin C and various phytonutrients that support overall health.

6. Protein Boost: With a modest amount of protein, these bars can help keep you feeling full and provide the building blocks for muscle repair and growth.

7. Low Sodium: These bars are relatively low in sodium, making them a heart-healthy choice, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.

8. Homemade Control: Making these bars at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they fit your dietary preferences and restrictions.

Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. However, these bars can be a nutritious and satisfying addition to your diet when consumed in moderation. Enjoy them as part of a balanced breakfast or snack.