Oatmeal Applesauce Squares
Oatmeal Applesauce Squares offer a delightful combination of moist cake, wholesome oats, and sweet applesauce, topped with a crumbly brown sugar and oats topping. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they appeal to both kids and adults seeking a healthier, tasty treat. Easy to prepare and naturally flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, and margarine in a bowl.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and pour applesauce evenly over the baked cake.
- In a separate bowl, combine oats and brown sugar until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the applesauce layer.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use a sugar substitute in place of brown sugar for a lower-calorie version. If you want extra flavor, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the oats mixture. Make sure to press the oat topping firmly over the applesauce for better adhesion during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a brunch treat, serve alongside fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait. They also complement a cup of coffee or tea perfectly, making them a great snack option during afternoon breaks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Oatmeal Applesauce Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Applesauce Squares contains roughly 351 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 18g fat.
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 add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, as well as dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, can enhance the flavor and texture of your squares. Just fold them into the batter before baking or sprinkle them over the oats mixture for an extra crunch.
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).