Name: Homemade Granola Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped; 1 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Homemade granola bars are a delightful and nutritious snack perfect for those on-the-go moments or a quick energy boost during the day. With the right mix of wholesome ingredients, these bars offer a satisfying crunch, a touch of sweetness, and the goodness of oats and nuts. Not only do they cater to your cravings, but they are also packed full of health benefits, making them a fantastic alternative to store-bought snacks.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 200
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Homemade Granola Bars

Making homemade granola bars allows you to control what goes into your snacks. Unlike many packaged options, you can avoid preservatives, artificial flavors, and refined sugars. These bars pack vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats while still delivering a great taste. Customize them to include your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, making each batch unique!

How to Make Homemade Granola Bars

Creating these granola bars is a simple and fun process. Follow the steps below to enjoy a healthy treat that the whole family will love!

Ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped
1 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help your bars maintain their shape when cut.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and salt. This dry mixture forms the base of your granola bars, providing a great crunchy texture.

Step 3: Cooking

In a small saucepan, combine honey or maple syrup and nut butter. Heat over low heat until the mixture is smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl and mix it thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Finishing

Stir in the chopped dried fruits and chocolate chips, if using. Then, press the mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Granola Bars

These granola bars are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a quick breakfast option with a cup of coffee, a mid-afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert. They make great lunchbox treats for kids or can be enjoyed post-workout to refuel your energy.

How to Store Homemade Granola Bars

To keep your homemade granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last up to three months in the freezer.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Granola Bars

Customize the Nuts: Feel free to swap out nuts based on your preference or what’s available. Just make sure they are chopped for easier eating.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup according to your taste. You can also use agave syrup for a vegan option.
Keep it Together: If your bars seem crumbly, add a bit more nut butter or sweetener to help them bind better.
Add Some Crunch: Consider adding seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.

Delicious Variations

Fruit and Nut: Add a mix of nuts and seeds for a heartier bar that boosts energy.
Chocolate Coconut: Add shredded coconut and increase the chocolate chips for a tropical twist.
Peanut Butter Banana: Incorporate dried banana chips and use peanut butter as your nut butter for a tasty banana flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant oats?
It’s best to use rolled oats for texture. Instant oats can make the bars too mushy.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup and use a vegan nut butter.
What if I don’t have a baking dish?
You can use a similar-sized deep baking tray. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I know when they are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can mix some protein powder into the wet ingredients for an added protein boost!

Conclusion

Homemade granola bars are not only easy to make, but they also provide a healthy, customizable snacking option for everyone. With nutritious ingredients and delightful flavors, they satisfy your cravings without compromising on health. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee, as an after-school snack, or a workout boost, you’ll love having these delicious bars on hand. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this wholesome treat at your convenience!