Homemade Granola Bars Easy Recipe Tasty and Nutritious

Looking for a tasty snack that’s both easy to make and healthy? You’re in the right place! Homemade granola bars are simple to whip up, and they pack a nutritious punch. With staple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create delicious bars perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will keep your energy up and your taste buds happy!

Ingredients

To make tasty and nutritious homemade granola bars, you need the right ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts), coarsely chopped

– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds

– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter

– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/2 cup dried fruits (such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins), chopped if large

Each ingredient adds flavor and texture. Oats provide a hearty base. Nuts give crunch and healthy fats. Sunflower seeds add a nice bite. Honey or maple syrup brings sweetness. Almond butter or peanut butter adds richness. Vanilla and cinnamon enhance the taste. Sea salt balances all the flavors. Dried fruits add a chewy texture.

Feel free to adjust these ingredients. You can swap nuts or fruits based on your taste. This recipe is flexible and fun! For the full recipe, check out the Crunchy Nutty Granola Bars section.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Dish

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)

– Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper

Start by preheating your oven. This helps the granola bars bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line your dish with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the bars later.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

– Combine rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, and sunflower seeds

Next, grab a large bowl. Add the rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, and sunflower seeds. Stir these together well. This mix gives the bars a great texture and crunch.

Creating the Sticky Mixture

– Melt honey and almond butter over low heat

– Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt

Now, take a small saucepan. Melt the honey and almond butter on low heat. Stir until it is smooth. Remove it from heat and add vanilla, cinnamon, and sea salt. Mix well. This sticky mixture binds everything together.

Combining Ingredients

– Pour the sticky mixture over the dry ingredients

– Fold in dried fruits

Pour your warm mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Use a spatula to mix it all together. Make sure every piece gets coated. Then, gently fold in your dried fruits. This adds sweetness and flavor.

Baking the Granola Bars

– Press mixture into the prepared baking dish

– Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown

Transfer the mixture to your lined dish. Press it down firmly to create an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top turns golden brown.

Final Steps

– Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars

After baking, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool completely. This is important! Once cool, lift the granola out using the parchment paper. Cut into bars or squares as you like. Enjoy your homemade granola bars! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture in your granola bars, you must press the mixture firmly into the dish. This step ensures your bars hold together well. Use a spatula or your hands to really pack it down. If you want chewier bars, bake them for about 20 minutes. For crunchier bars, let them bake for 25 minutes. Just keep an eye on the color; golden brown is the goal!

Enhancing Flavor

You can make your granola bars even tastier by experimenting with flavors. Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm kick. Swapping almond butter for peanut butter can change the taste, too. If you love chocolate, mix in some chocolate chips. Seeds like chia or flax can add a fun crunch and boost nutrition. There are endless ways to customize your bars!

Serving Suggestions

When serving, you can top your granola bars with yogurt or fresh fruit for extra flavor. They pair well with a glass of milk or a smoothie. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can keep them on the counter or in the fridge. Wrapping each bar in parchment paper makes for easy grab-and-go snacks. Enjoy your tasty, healthy creation!

Variations

Nut-Free Version

You can make your granola bars nut-free easily. Replace nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sesame. You can also use puffed rice for a light crunch. This change keeps the bars tasty and safe for those with nut allergies.

Different Flavor Profiles

Want to spice things up? Add coconut flakes for a tropical taste. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet treat. Another fun idea is to use nut extracts. Almond or hazelnut extracts can give your bars a unique flavor that is truly delightful.

Low-Sugar Options

If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can still enjoy these bars. Substitute maple syrup with stevia or agave nectar. These alternatives can make your bars low in sugar while keeping them sweet and enjoyable. You won’t miss the extra sugar at all.

For the full recipe, check out the Crunchy Nutty Granola Bars.

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method prevents moisture from getting in and keeps the bars crunchy. You can store them at room temperature on your kitchen counter. However, if you live in a hot climate, consider placing them in the fridge. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.

Shelf Life

Homemade granola bars last about one week at room temperature. In the fridge, they can stay fresh for about two weeks. Watch for signs of spoilage. If you see any mold or if the bars smell off, it’s best to toss them.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare granola bars in bulk and freeze them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a bar, just take it out and let it thaw. This method keeps them tasting fresh, just like when you made them. For a quick snack, you can even eat them straight from the freezer!

FAQs

Can I substitute honey with something else?

Yes, you can. If you want a different sweetener, try these options:

– Maple syrup

– Agave nectar

– Brown rice syrup

These alternatives work well in most recipes. They keep the bars sticky and sweet. Each has a unique flavor, so pick one you enjoy.

How do I ensure my granola bars don’t crumble?

To keep your bars together, follow these tips:

– Press the mixture firmly into the dish.

– Use enough sticky ingredients, like honey or nut butter.

– Let the bars cool completely before cutting.

These steps help bind the mixture. The more compact your mixture, the less likely it will crumble.

Are these granola bars healthy?

Yes, they are! These granola bars offer several health benefits:

– Rolled oats provide fiber, which aids digestion.

– Nuts add healthy fats and protein.

– Dried fruits bring vitamins and minerals.

This recipe is nutrient-rich. It fuels your body and keeps you full longer. You can enjoy a tasty snack while keeping health in mind. For the detailed recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

You’ve learned how to make delicious granola bars with simple, healthy ingredients. From mixing the oats and nuts to baking the bars just right, every step matters. Remember to experiment with flavors and storage to make them your own. These bars are great for snacks or breakfast. With a little care, you can enjoy them longer. Now, it’s time to get baking and enjoy your homemade treats!

Homemade Granola Bars: Easy Recipe

Discover the joy of making crunchy nutty granola bars with this simple recipe! Packed with oats, mixed nuts, and dried fruits, these bars are perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast on the go. With just a few easy steps, you can create delicious and nutritious treats that your whole family will love. Click through to explore the full recipe and start making your own crunchy nutty granola bars today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts), coarsely chopped

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup dried fruits (such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins), chopped if large

Instructions

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to facilitate easy removal later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, and sunflower seeds. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they're well incorporated.

In a small saucepan set over low heat, mix the honey (or maple syrup) and almond (or peanut) butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt, stirring until all flavors meld together.

Pour the warm nut and syrup mixture over your dry ingredient blend. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until every oat and nut piece is evenly coated with the sticky mixture.

Gently fold in the chopped dried fruits, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the mixture for maximum flavor in each bite.

Transfer the granola mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spatula or your hands to press down firmly and create an even, compact layer.

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola bars are beautifully golden brown on top.

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After cooling, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire block of granola out, and cut into individual bars or squares as desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

- Presentation Tips: For a charming display, stack the granola bars on a rustic wooden board and tie them with twine. Alternatively, wrap each bar individually in parchment paper for an easy, on-the-go snack option. Enjoy your wholesome treat!