Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
03 - 1/2 tsp baking soda
04 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 tsp salt
06 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or a mix of both)
07 - 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
08 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
11 - 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (or mini chocolate chips for less sweetness)
12 - 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional, such as raisins or cranberries)
13 - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or almonds)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
03 - In another bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, almond butter, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
04 - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
05 - Fold in the chocolate chips, dried fruit, and chopped nuts (if using).
06 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
07 - Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
08 - These oatmeal bars are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the go!

# Notes:

01 - For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy chocolate chips.
02 - You can swap almond butter for peanut butter or cashew butter, depending on your preference.
03 - These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature, or up to 1 week in the fridge.
04 - For an extra boost of protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the wet ingredients.
05 - Feel free to customize with other add-ins like chia seeds, flax seeds, or coconut flakes.