Soft, chewy bars with juicy pears and warm maple flavor, perfect for a quick nourishing morning boost.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
07 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
08 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Fruits & Add-ins
11 - 2 medium ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
12 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together pure maple syrup, melted unsalted butter (or coconut oil), unsweetened applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined to maintain texture.
05 - Fold diced pears and optional chopped nuts into the batter until evenly distributed.
06 - Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
07 - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 equal portions.
