If you’re looking for a wholesome snack that combines taste and nutrition, this granola bar recipe is perfect for you. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, these bars are not only delicious but also customizable according to your preferences. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or the gym, these homemade granola bars will keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts)
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 granola bars. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 granola bar) contains approximately 180 calories, 7g protein, 8g fat, 22g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter over low heat until melted.
- Add the vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until evenly coated.
- Add the dried fruits and chocolate chips, and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into bars.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container for up to one week.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ingredients based on your dietary needs. For instance, use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan option, or swap in sunflower seeds for nuts if allergies are a concern. Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or nut butters to create your unique flavor profile!
Serving and Pairings
These granola bars are fantastic on their own but can also be paired with yogurt or fresh fruit for a more balanced snack. They are perfect for breakfast on the go or as a pre-workout energy boost.
Storage and Reheating
Store your granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer bag for up to three months. There’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy them as they are!
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough into the baking dish.
- Overbaking the bars, which can make them too hard.
- Using too much liquid, which can lead to a sticky mess.
- Skipping the parchment paper, making it hard to remove the bars.
- Not letting them cool completely before cutting.
Helpful Tips
- Use a large mixing bowl for easy stirring.
- Experiment with different nut and seed combinations.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes for easier cutting.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free oats to make these granola bars suitable for a gluten-free diet. Just ensure all other ingredients, such as nuts and nut butter, are also gluten-free.
How long do these granola bars last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these granola bars last about a week at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to three months for longer storage.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients for an extra protein boost. Just make sure to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if needed.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup can be used as alternatives to honey. Each will give a slightly different taste, but they work well in this recipe.
Are these granola bars suitable for kids?
Yes, these granola bars are a great snack for kids. They are healthy, easy to make, and can be customized to suit their tastes with various add-ins.
Conclusion
Making your own granola bars allows you to control the ingredients and customize flavors to your liking. This granola bar recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a delicious, nutritious snack that you can enjoy anytime. With endless variations and easy preparation, you’ll never want to buy store-bought bars again!
Granola Bar Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts almonds, walnuts, or peanuts
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup nut butter peanut or almond
- 1 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter over low heat until melted.
- Add the vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until evenly coated.
- Add the dried fruits and chocolate chips, and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into bars.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition
