Are you looking for a healthy snack that’s easy to make and delicious? These homemade granola bars are perfect for busy mornings or a quick pick-me-up during the day. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, they offer a delightful crunch and are fully customizable to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will have you enjoying your homemade treats in no time!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)
– 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 10 granola bars. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 granola bar) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one bar.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and mixed nuts.
4. In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and salt into the honey mixture.
6. Pour the liquid mixture over the oat and nut mixture, stirring well.
7. Fold in dried fruits and chocolate chips, if using.
8. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
9. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands.
10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute honey with agave syrup for a vegan option. You can also use any type of nut butter, and swap out the nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Serving and Pairings
These granola bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of yogurt or fresh fruit for a more filling snack. They’re also a great addition to lunchboxes or post-workout snacks!
Storage and Reheating
Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough can lead to crumbly bars.
- Baking for too long can make them hard; keep an eye on them.
- Using too much liquid can make the bars soggy.
- Not letting them cool completely can make cutting difficult.
- Skipping the parchment paper can lead to sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different nuts and seeds for variety.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for cleaner edges.
- Make a double batch to have more on hand!
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How long can I store these granola bars?
You can store them at room temperature for one week or freeze for up to three months.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to the oat mixture for an extra protein boost.
What can I use instead of nuts?
You can use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds as a nut-free alternative.
Are these granola bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a healthy snack option for kids and can be customized to their taste preferences.
Conclusion
Homemade granola bars are a simple and nutritious snack that you can easily customize to fit your taste. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a healthy treat that the whole family will love. Enjoy them on the go or as a delightful addition to your meals!
Homemade Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup mixed nuts
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter
- 1/2 cup dried fruits
- 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 with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and mixed nuts.
- In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt into the honey mixture.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the oat and nut mixture, stirring well.
- Fold in dried fruits and chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Press down firmly with a spatula.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.
