Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars have become my go-to for those mornings when I need a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I tried a homemade version; the scent of baked apples and cinnamon filling my kitchen instantly transported me back to cozy childhood mornings. These easy breakfast bars are so simple to whip up, and the combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon makes them a truly special breakfast treat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
- Taste: A delightful blend of sweet apples and warm cinnamon that’s like a comforting hug.
- Prep Time: You can whip up these easy breakfast bars in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
- Health Benefits: Made with real apples and wholesome ingredients, they offer a better-than-store-bought alternative.
- Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples makes these incredibly cost-effective.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet, comforting flavors of these bars.
- Convenience: These easy breakfast bars are fantastic for grab-and-go mornings or a quick afternoon snack.
- Versatility: Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, making them a flexible breakfast option.
Ingredients for Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating your new favorite cinnamon apple bars. The combination of pantry staples and fresh apples makes these bars truly special for any morning.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our bars
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential for that classic warm flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps the bars rise and become tender
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – for richness and a tender crumb
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar – adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor
- 1 large egg – binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
- 1 cup finely chopped apples – about 1 medium apple, for that perfect fruity bite
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth
How to Make Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, get your 8×8 inch baking pan ready by greasing and flouring it. This ensures your delicious bars won’t stick.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This dry mix forms the backbone of our easy breakfast bars.
- Step 3: In a larger bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Beat them until the mixture looks light and fluffy – you’ll see it change color and texture.
- Step 4: Now, beat in the 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined. The aroma of vanilla is already a great sign!
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients in the larger bowl. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bars tough.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the 1 cup finely chopped apples and the 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, if you’re using them. You want to distribute these goodies evenly throughout the batter for the best flavor and texture in every bite.
- Step 7: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Make sure it reaches all the corners so you get consistent bars.
- Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown and the center should look set.
- Step 9: Let these wonderful easy breakfast bars cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before attempting to cut them. This cooling time is crucial for them to firm up properly, making them easier to handle. Once cooled slightly, cut into squares and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make these bars extra special. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results!
- Use finely chopped apples to ensure they cook through evenly and distribute their flavor and moisture throughout the bars.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; a gentle mix prevents tough bars.
- Allow the bars to cool sufficiently in the pan before cutting. This helps them set and makes for cleaner slices.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients along with the cinnamon.
What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars?
The real secret to perfect cinnamon apple bars is in the apple prep! Finely chopping them ensures they bake into the batter, releasing moisture and flavor for incredibly tender bars. Don’t skip this step!
Can I make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes your morning even easier!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars?
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this leads to tough bars. Also, ensure your apples are finely chopped so they cook through properly. Lastly, always let them cool before cutting for cleaner, intact pieces.
Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
These bars are a wonderful standalone breakfast treat, but I love to elevate them with a few simple additions. For a truly comforting start to your day, try warming them gently and serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey. They also pair beautifully with a side of scrambled eggs or a small bowl of fresh berries. If you’re looking for a more decadent experience, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them an amazing dessert or weekend brunch indulgence. Enjoy these versatile breakfast bars!
Nutrition Facts for Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each of these delicious Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars, per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities you use. For more healthy eating tips, check out our tasty therapeutic cooking resources.
How to Store and Reheat Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
Once your delicious Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars have cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and flavorful. I like to let them cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This way, they retain their moisture and delightful texture. Stored at room temperature, these bars are a perfect breakfast treat for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a quick, warm bite. For more baking inspiration, explore our recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
What can I add to Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars for extra flavor?
You can easily boost the flavor of these easy breakfast bars by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients. A tablespoon of lemon zest in the batter also adds a lovely brightness that complements the apples and cinnamon beautifully. For more ideas on enhancing flavors, consider our guide on vanilla bean paste.
Can I make these Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can! To make these easy breakfast bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You can find more tips on our site.
How do I make sure my Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are moist?
The key to moist easy breakfast bars is not to overmix the batter and to use good quality, finely chopped apples. The apples release moisture as they bake, keeping everything tender. Also, be careful not to overbake them; check for doneness with a toothpick. For more baking techniques, you might find our about me page helpful.
Are Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars a good option for meal prep?
Absolutely! These bars are fantastic for meal prep. Once cooled, you can cut them into individual portions and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for a few days at room temperature, making busy mornings so much easier. For other quick meal ideas, check out this macaroni tuna casserole.
Variations of Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars You Can Try
While these irresistible apple cinnamon breakfast bars are fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few ways you can switch up the recipe for new flavors and dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. This makes a wonderful gluten-free version of these cinnamon apple bars.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free treat.
- Add Some Zing: For a brighter flavor profile, add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter along with the vanilla extract. It really makes the apple and cinnamon flavors pop!
- Berry Boost: Fold in about a half cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries along with the apples for a burst of extra fruitiness.
Irresistible Apple Breakfast: 15 Min Magic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars are a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy mornings. These easy-to-make bars are bursting with delightful flavors and textures, transforming any breakfast into a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Ensure your apples are finely chopped for even distribution.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
