It’s National Apple Month, so grab a cup of hot apple cider, and let’s learn a little about the star of today’s recipe: the green apple.
The age-old saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," seems to have roots in scientific truth! Green apples, in particular, stand out as nutritional powerhouses. They are high in dietary fiber, which plays a pivotal role in heart health by helping to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
And - green apples - when consumed regularly, can potentially reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to the beneficial compounds they possess.
Another standout component in these apples is pectin. This compound works wonders as a prebiotic, fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. So, when you bite into a green apple, you're treating your taste buds and nurturing a robust digestive system.
Curious about the mighty green apple? Check out our latest blog and get right to the "core" of the subject! (LOL! 😂)
Speaking of fiber, let's chat about a super-easy way to boost your daily fiber intake by adding —just better.® Prebiotic Fiber to the recipes and drinks you already love!
When you're on a mission to improve gut health, manage blood sugars, slim down, and just give your heart that extra layer of love, adding more fiber is always the way to go.
What’s the magic behind our just better.® prebiotic fiber?
It's all about simplicity and compatibility. With just one single ingredient, it's flavorless and 100% dissolvable. And there are no embarrassing side-effects! No gas, no bloating, no unexpected aftertaste, and absolutely no gritty texture. Add fiber to your healthy living routine without a fuss.
Now, onto the fun part! Here’s a delicious recipe that combines the seasonal charm of Granny Smith apples, pumpkin spice, and the healthful boost of our prebiotic fiber.
just better.® Apple Pumpkin Spice Bars
You'll Need:
Mixing Bowl
8-inch Baking Pan
Parchment Paper or Nonstick Cooking Spray
Ingredients:
2/3 cup organic pumpkin puree
½ Cup pure maple syrup
¾ Cup cashew, almond, or sunflower seed butter
2 ½ Cups old-fashioned rolled oats
6 Tablespoons just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
¼ Cup ground flaxseed
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp sea salt
1 Large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 Medium organic ripe banana, mashed
Optional: Chopped nuts of your choice for topping.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. If you're out of parchment, no worries! Just give the baking dish a good spray with cooking spray or a light greasing with coconut oil.
- Combine the pumpkin puree, mashed banana, maple syrup, and nut/seed butter in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until you've got a creamy, dreamy mixture.
- Don't forget our star player – the just better.® Prebiotic Fiber. Mix well!
- Sprinkle in the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt.
- Now, fold in the chopped apple pieces. Ensure they're well-distributed throughout the dough for those lovely bursts of flavor in every bite.
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Spread your mixture into the prepared baking dish with a rubber spatula. Pop into the oven and let bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. You're looking for golden-brown edges and a clean test from the center.
- Patience, patience! Let the bars cool down to room temperature before you get slicing. They're worth the wait, promise!
Storage Tips: These bars like it cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Got leftovers? Freeze them! They'll stay good for up to 3 months.
Baking not only warms the home but the heart as well. We hope you try these healthy snack bars, share them with the people you love, and tag us in your posts! We love seeing your creations!
