Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted or unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease the pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together honey, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in any chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips if desired.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.