Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack that you can make at home? Look no further! This granola bar recipe is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a mid-afternoon energy boost, these bars are customizable to suit your taste. Whether you prefer crunchy nuts or sweet dried fruits, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while providing essential nutrients.
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 or almond)
– 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Optional: chocolate chips, seeds
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 bars. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 bar):
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and chopped nuts.
4. In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and salt to the oat mixture.
6. Add the warm mixture to the oats and nuts, mixing well.
7. Fold in the dried fruits (and chocolate chips, if using).
8. Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats. You can also swap honey for agave syrup for a vegan option.
Serving and Pairings
These granola bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or hiking snacks.
Storage and Reheating
Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture tightly enough may result in crumbly bars.
- Overbaking can lead to dry granola bars.
- Using too much liquid can make bars sticky and hard to cut.
- Skipping the parchment paper can cause sticking.
- Not allowing bars to cool completely before cutting can lead to uneven pieces.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different nuts and fruits for varied flavors.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for cleaner edges.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- For crunch, include seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
FAQs
Can I make granola bars without nuts?
Yes, you can omit the nuts or replace them with seeds or puffed rice for a nut-free option.
How long do homemade granola bars last?
Homemade granola bars can last up to a week at room temperature and up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder for an extra protein boost. Just adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These granola bars are a healthy and tasty snack for kids, packed with nutrients and flavor.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can be used, but they may result in a softer texture. Rolled oats provide a chewier bite.
Conclusion
Making your own granola bars is not only easy but also a healthier alternative to store-bought options. By customizing the ingredients, you can create a snack that fits your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy these delicious bars as a wholesome treat anytime!
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 or almond
- 1 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: chocolate chips seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and chopped nuts.
- In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt to the oat mixture.
- Add the warm mixture to the oats and nuts, mixing well.
- Fold in the dried fruits (and chocolate chips, if using).
- Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
