Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In large bowl, combine dry ingredients and mix well.

In separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, almond milk, apple sauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract and chopped walnuts until fully combined.

Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until thick, moist dough forms. (Note: It should hold together. If dry, add a splash more milk if too wet, add a bit more tapioca flour.)

Into lined pan, pour dough and press until evened out using spatula or damp hands.

Press whole walnuts into top of mixture.

Bake 40-42 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly soft, but not wet. Cool in pan before cutting into 25 bars. (Note: Chill 20–30 minutes for cleaner cuts.)