A soft-baked, cozy treat bursting with warm apple & cinnamon.

Soft, chewy, and lightly sweet, these Soft-Baked Apple Oat Protein Bars are the kind of grab-and-go snack that feel like breakfast and dessert rolled into one. The texture is soft-baked — somewhere between a protein bar and a snack cake — while the gentle apple-cinnamon flavor makes them an easy favorite for mornings, lunchboxes, and pre- or post-workout fuel. Each bite offers a cozy mix of oats, apples, and vanilla that tastes simple, familiar, and satisfying.

Why you'll love these protein bars

These bars are incredibly easy to make and rely on pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Rolled oats give the bars structure, applesauce keeps them soft and moist, and just a bit of maple syrup ties everything together with natural sweetness. Our Life's Abundance Vanilla Plant Protein blends in seamlessly, adding a boost of plant-based protein without affecting the soft, tender texture.

This recipe also scales beautifully — perfect if you're prepping ahead for busy weeks, family trips, or large gathering spreads. Whether enjoyed chilled, warm, or straight from the container, these bars deliver a clean, simple snack you'll feel good about eating.

Soft-Baked Apple Oat Protein Bars recipe

Ingredients (Makes about 10–12 bars):

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 scoop Life's Abundance Vanilla Plant Protein
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp nut butter (almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter) or mild-flavored oil
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• ¼ cup finely diced dried apples
• Optional: pinch of salt or 1 tsp vanilla extract for deeper flavor

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment.
• In a large bowl, whisk together oats, Vanilla Plant Protein, cinnamon, and baking powder.
• In a separate bowl, stir together the applesauce, nut butter (or oil), and maple syrup.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a cohesive batter forms.
• Fold in the finely diced dried apples.
• Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
• Cool completely before slicing into 10–12 bars.

Apple oat bars with warm spice & our Vanilla Plant Protein for feel-good fuel.

Tips for soft & chewy protein bars

• For a sweeter bar, bump the maple syrup to 4 tablespoons.
• For extra apple flavor, add a few drops of apple extract or an additional tablespoon of finely diced dried fruit.
• If using oil instead of nut butter, expect a slightly softer, more cake-like texture.
• A pinch of salt (even ⅛ teaspoon) really enhances the apple and cinnamon notes.
• Want a thicker bar? Use a 6x6 pan and extend baking time slightly.

Serving & storage suggestions

These bars slice best once they've cooled completely and firmed up. For even cleaner cuts, chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

Store in an airtight container:

• At room temperature: up to 5 days
• Refrigerated: up to 1 week
• Frozen: up to 2 months (thaw overnight or enjoy chilled straight from the freezer)

They're perfect with morning coffee, tucked into backpacks or gym bags, or paired with yogurt for a quick, balanced breakfast. Whether you're meal prepping or making a batch for your next adventure, these Soft-Baked Apple Oat Protein Bars deliver soft-baked goodness in every bite. Give them a try and let us know how you enjoy them — they're a simple, feel-good snack that fits right into busy days.

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