# Components:
→ Dry Components
01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Moist Components
08 - 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
09 - 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
10 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Fruit and Add-ins
13 - 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (approximately 2 medium apples)
14 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
15 - 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for overhang to facilitate easy removal.
02 - In a substantial mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-emulsified.
04 - Pour the emulsified wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry components. Stir gently until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
05 - Gently fold in the diced apples. If utilizing, also add the chopped nuts and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
06 - Spread the prepared batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring a uniform layer.
07 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until the surface achieves a golden-brown hue and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
08 - Allow the baked bars to cool completely within the pan. Once cooled, carefully lift the assembled bars using the parchment overhang and cut them into 12 equal portions.
