Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Lily Morgan

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Are you looking for a nutritious and delicious snack? These homemade granola bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy treat. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, they provide energy and flavor in every bite. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to customize your bars with your favorite ingredients, making them a delightful addition to your snack collection.

Ingredients


– 2 cups oats
– 1 cup nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
– 1 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Optional: chocolate chips, seeds, or coconut flakes

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 12 bars. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 200 calories, 8g protein, 10g fat, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a large bowl, mix oats and nuts together.
  • In a small saucepan, combine honey and peanut butter over low heat.
  • Stir until melted and combined, then remove from heat.
  • Add vanilla extract and salt to the mixture.
  • Pour the mixture over the oats and nuts, mixing well.
  • Add dried fruits and any optional ingredients, stirring to combine.
  • Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option. If you’re nut-free, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts. Dried fruits can also be swapped with fresh fruits or chocolate chips for added sweetness.

Serving and Pairings

These granola bars are perfect on their own but can also be paired with yogurt or fresh fruit for a more substantial snack. They make an excellent addition to lunchboxes or as a post-workout treat.

Storage and Reheating

Store your homemade granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just wrap individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Cooking Mistakes

  • Using too much liquid can make bars soggy.
  • Not pressing down the mixture firmly may cause them to crumble.
  • Baking for too long can lead to burnt edges.
  • Skipping the salt can reduce flavor.
  • Not letting the bars cool completely before cutting can lead to messy pieces.

Helpful Tips

  • Experiment with different nuts and fruits for variety.
  • For chewier bars, use more nut butter.
  • Cut the bars while they’re warm for cleaner edges.
  • Add spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
  • Keep a close eye while baking to prevent burning.

FAQs

Can I make these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long do homemade granola bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last about a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out nuts, fruits, or sweeteners based on your preferences.

Why do my granola bars crumble?

They may crumble if there isn’t enough binding agent like nut butter or honey, or if they weren’t pressed down firmly enough before baking.

Is it possible to make them vegan?

Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, and use a nut butter that doesn’t contain added sugar.

Conclusion

Homemade granola bars are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste. Perfect for a quick snack, they provide a wholesome alternative to store-bought options. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy delicious bars that are both nutritious and satisfying!

Homemade Granola Bars

Delicious and nutritious homemade granola bars packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits. Perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the go.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: granola bars, healthy snacks, homemade, quick recipes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups oats
  • 1 cup nuts e.g., almonds, walnuts
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
  • 1 cup dried fruits e.g., raisins, cranberries
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional: chocolate chips seeds, or coconut flakes

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix oats and nuts together.
  • In a small saucepan, combine honey and peanut butter over low heat.
  • Stir until melted and combined, then remove from heat.
  • Add vanilla extract and salt to the mixture.
  • Pour the mixture over the oats and nuts, mixing well.
  • Add dried fruits and any optional ingredients, stirring to combine.
  • Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 3g

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