Apple Oatmeal Fingers for Tiny Hands
Soft-baked oatmeal bars perfect for little ones to hold and gum, packed with apple and cinnamon for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quick oats (or old-fashioned oats pulsed briefly)
- 1 cup milk (breast milk, formula, or whole cow's milk)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or 1 small apple, grated)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon melted butter or oil (optional, for richness)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the quick oats, milk, applesauce (or grated apple), egg, cinnamon, and melted butter/oil (if using).
Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the liquid. The mixture will be wet, like thick porridge.
Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. It should be about 1/2 to 1 inch thick.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
The oatmeal should feel firm to the touch, but not hard.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the baking dish. Cooling helps the oatmeal solidify.
Once cooled, cut the baked oatmeal into finger-sized strips or bars.
Serve a piece to your little one. The texture is soft and easily gummed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Safety Notes
- Adult supervision required during preparation and feeding.
- Ensure the oatmeal fingers are cooled completely before serving to prevent burns.
- Cut the fingers into small, manageable sizes to prevent choking.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 85 kcal per serving
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 3g