Are you looking for a healthy snack that’s both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further! This granola bar recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a chewy, flavorful treat that you can enjoy anytime. Perfect for breakfast, a mid-afternoon boost, or a post-workout snack, these bars are customizable to your taste. Let’s get started on making your own batch of homemade granola bars!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
- 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 granola bars. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each granola bar (approximately 1 bar) contains about 150 calories, 5g protein, 7g fat, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, nuts, and salt.
- In a saucepan, combine honey and nut butter. Heat until melted.
- Add vanilla extract to the melted mixture.
- Pour the honey mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well.
- Fold in dried fruits and chocolate chips, if using.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute honey with agave syrup for a vegan option. Additionally, swap out nuts for seeds if you have nut allergies, and use puffed rice for a lighter texture.
Serving and Pairings
These granola bars pair well with yogurt or fresh fruits for a balanced breakfast or snack. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or outdoor activities for a quick energy boost.
Storage and Reheating
Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator or freezer. They can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough into the pan.
- Overbaking, which can lead to hard bars.
- Skimping on the sticky ingredients (honey/nut butter).
- Using too much dried fruit, making them overly sweet.
- Not letting them cool completely before cutting.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of nuts and seeds.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to cut bars for clean edges.
- Wrap individual bars for easy grab-and-go snacks.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure that you use gluten-free oats and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How long do these granola bars last?
They can last up to a week at room temperature, or longer if stored in the fridge or freezer.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding protein powder can enhance the nutritional value. Just be mindful of the moisture content.
Are these granola bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they make a great healthy snack for kids, especially when customized to their taste preferences.
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
Fresh fruits have higher moisture content and can make the bars soggy, so it’s better to stick with dried fruits.
How do I cut the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife and cut them after they have fully cooled to achieve clean cuts.
Conclusion
Making your own granola bars at home is a rewarding process that allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect snack for any time of day. Enjoy your homemade granola bars!
Granola Bar Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts almonds, walnuts, or pecans
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/2 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, nuts, and salt.
- In a saucepan, combine honey and nut butter. Heat until melted.
- Add vanilla extract to the melted mixture.
- Pour the honey mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well.
- Fold in dried fruits and chocolate chips, if using.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
