Ingredients

For the Chocolate Apple Layer

• Apples – 1 kg, peeled and diced
• Dark chocolate – 300 g (without added sugar), broken into small pieces

For the Oat Layer

• Eggs – 2 large
• Sweetener – 3 g (adjust to taste)
• Milk – 150 ml
• Oat flakes – 150 g
• Baking powder – 5 g
• Cocoa powder – 10 g
• Sunflower oil – a small amount, to grease the baking pan
• Walnuts – 20 g, chopped

For the Banana Apple Oat Layer

• Oat flakes – 150 g
• Milk – 100 g
• Eggs – 3 large
• Bananas – 2, mashed
• Apple – 1, grated
• Cinnamon – a dash, to taste

How to Make Healthy Chocolate Apple Oat Bars

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Apple Mixture
   • Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Peel and dice the apples, then place them in a saucepan with a small amount of water over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples become soft.
   • Once the apples are softened, remove the lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let any excess water evaporate.
   • Add the dark chocolate pieces to the hot apples, stirring until they melt and are fully combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Oat Layer
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the sweetener until well combined.
   • Pour in the milk, and add the oat flakes, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and a batter forms.
   • Lightly grease a baking pan with sunflower oil to prevent sticking. Pour half of the oat mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly to form the bottom layer.
   • Bake this layer in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it begins to set.
3. Prepare the Banana Apple Oat Layer
   • In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, then add the eggs and milk, whisking until blended.
   • Add the oat flakes, grated apple, and a dash of cinnamon, stirring until everything is mixed into a consistent batter.
4. Assemble the Layers
   • Remove the partially baked oat layer from the oven, and pour the chocolate apple mixture over it, spreading it out evenly.
   • Pour the remaining half of the oat layer mixture on top of the chocolate apple layer, then spread the banana apple oat layer over the top.
   • Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for added crunch.
5. Bake the Bars
   • Place the layered mixture in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars for easy serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 55mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 10g (naturally occurring)
• Protein: 6g
• Vitamin A: 2% DV
• Vitamin C: 10% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

(Note: Nutrition values are approximations and may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I substitute the dark chocolate with another type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you prefer, although dark chocolate without added sugar is recommended to keep the bars as healthy as possible. Milk or white chocolate will increase the sweetness and calorie count.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the chocolate, are also gluten-free.

Q3: What if I don’t have a sweetener?

You can substitute with honey, maple syrup, or a small amount of sugar if desired. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.

Tips for Making the Best Healthy Chocolate Apple Oat Bars

1. Choose the Right Oats
   • Use rolled oats or quick oats for a better texture in these bars. Steel-cut oats are too coarse for this recipe and may not soften adequately.
2. Add More Flavor with Spices
   • Add spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to enhance the flavor. Cinnamon is already included, but other warm spices go well with chocolate and apple.
3. Avoid Overbaking
   • Watch the bars closely during baking. Overbaking can dry out the oats, making the bars crumbly instead of chewy. Remove them as soon as the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
4. Make It Your Own
   • Customize this recipe by adding other healthy toppings such as shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Refrigerating them helps maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing: These bars are freezer-friendly! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.

Reheating: If you enjoy your bars warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Warming them up brings out the rich chocolate and softens the oats slightly.

Conclusion

These Healthy Chocolate Apple Oat Bars are a fantastic, nutritious option for anyone looking for a balanced, low-sugar snack that doesn’t compromise on taste. Combining the natural sweetness of apples and bananas with hearty oats and creamy dark chocolate, these bars offer a unique combination of flavors and textures. Ideal for breakfast, as an energy-boosting snack, or even as a dessert, they’re versatile, easy to make, and highly customizable.

Whether you’re packing them for work, enjoying them at home, or sharing with friends, these bars are a great way to incorporate more whole foods into your diet without sacrificing enjoyment. Perfect for meal prep, they’ll become a go-to in your snack rotation! Enjoy your wholesome, chocolatey treat!