Oatmeal Apple Butter Bars
Sweet and hearty oatmeal apple butter bars combine tender oat crust with rich apple butter, ideal for breakfast, snack, or dessert lovers seeking comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut margarine into flour and brown sugar until crumbly.
- Stir in oatmeal.
- Press half of the oatmeal mixture firmly into a greased 8-inch pan.
- Spread apple butter within 1/2 inch of the edge of the crust.
- Sprinkle remaining oatmeal mixture over the apple butter.
- Press carefully but firmly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until lightly brown.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you prefer a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oatmeal mixture will enhance the flavor profile. If you don't have apple butter, homemade applesauce can be a good alternative, though it will change the texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal apple butter bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for brunch or afternoon snacks. Consider serving them alongside Dot Hinshaw's Peach Ice Cream for a delightful summer treat.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Apple Butter Bars contains roughly 392 calories, with 5g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or even maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the amount of margarine slightly to maintain the dough's consistency. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly with these alternatives.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination. This will yield a delicious gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
How can I make these bars more festive for the holidays?
To add a festive touch, incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the oatmeal mixture. You can also add dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of color and flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving can elevate their presentation as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).