If you’re craving a comforting fall treat that’s both nutritious and satisfying, this Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe is your new go-to. Packed with tart apples, naturally sweet dates, and heart-healthy oats, these bars strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment.
Whether you want a snack for the kids, a healthy dessert, or a make-ahead breakfast, these bars deliver soft centers, a golden crumbly topping, and all the comforting flavors of autumn.
🧁 No mixer needed. Just a saucepan, a mixing bowl, and one baking tin!
✅ Why You’ll Love This Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe
This isn’t your average fruit bar. What makes this Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe stand out?
- Naturally Sweet – Dates and apples do most of the sweetening.
- No eggs – Great for egg allergies or plant-based eaters.
- Crunch + chew – Rolled oats and walnuts give it texture while the date-apple layer stays soft and juicy.
- Freezer-friendly – Make a batch now, save some for later.
- Customizable – Gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan variations are super easy.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Date-Apple Filling
- 2 cups Granny Smith apples, diced (about 175–200g)
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped small (about 150g)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp water
For the Oat Crust and Topping
- 180g melted unsalted butter (1½ sticks)
- ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar (165g)
- 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour (170g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1¼ cups rolled oats (90g)
- ⅓ cup raisins (45g)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (25g)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (25g)
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch square baking tin
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk + spoon
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing
👩🍳 How to Make the Best Apple Oat Date Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Tin
Line your 8×8 baking tin with two strips of parchment, forming a crisscross with 1-inch overhangs on all sides. Spray or grease generously. This helps lift the bars out cleanly once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Fruit Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine diced apples, dates, water, and granulated sugar.
Bring to a simmer, then cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates break down and the apples soften.
Let the mixture cool while you prepare the oat layers.
🍎 No need to peel the apples—just core and dice!
Step 3: Make the Oat Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, rolled oats, shredded coconut, raisins, chopped walnuts, and dark brown sugar.
Add melted butter and mix until a moist, crumbly dough forms.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Press half the oat mixture into the lined tin to form a solid base.
Spread the apple-date filling evenly over it.
Top with the remaining oat mixture. Press down lightly so it holds together when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 28–32 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cool completely in the tin. For sharp edges, chill before slicing.
📦 Storage Tips
Room Temperature
Keep your bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator
Lasts up to 1 week when stored properly.
Freezer-Friendly!
Layer bars between parchment or wrap individually. Store in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or 30 minutes at room temp.
🌱 Dietary Variations for Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe
Want to adapt the recipe? Here’s how:
Gluten-Free
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
Vegan
Use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of dairy butter.
Nut-Free
Skip the walnuts and add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or extra oats instead.
🧠 Expert Baking Tips
- Use a metal tin, not glass, for best heat conduction.
- Dice apples small (¼ to ½ inch cubes) so they cook quickly and evenly.
- Don’t skip parchment lining—bars can stick or crumble without it.
- Use dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor.
- Want extra crisp? Broil the top for the final 2 minutes (watch closely!).
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Bar)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~27g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Fat | ~9g |
| Sugar | ~15g |
💡 Numbers are approximate and vary based on substitutions and brands.
🤔 Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe FAQs
Can I use quick oats?
Stick with rolled oats for chewy texture. Quick oats will make the bars too soft.
Can I skip the sugar in the filling?
Yes—dates are naturally sweet enough. The bars will just be more fruit-forward.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13 inch pan and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
What if I don’t have dates?
Use dried figs or prunes as a substitute—but expect a different taste.
🥄 Serving Ideas
- Pair with hot apple cider or cinnamon tea for the ultimate fall treat.
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Crumble a bar over vanilla ice cream for a healthier dessert.
📝 Printable Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe Card
Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe
A hearty oat-based bar filled with dates, apples, and cozy spices.
Prep Time: 40 min | Bake Time: 30 min | Total Time: 1 hr 10 min
Yields: 16 bars | Category: Dessert / Snack | Cuisine: American
💬 Final Thoughts
This Apple Oat Date Bars Recipe isn’t just another dessert—it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients, real flavors, and homemade goodness. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers but flavorful enough to impress a crowd.
Perfectly portable, delicious warm or cold, and ideal for snack time, lunchboxes, or a cozy dessert, these bars are destined to become a family favorite.
📣 Tell Us What You Think!
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