Granola bars are a fantastic snack option, providing both energy and nutrition in a convenient form. Whether you’re preparing for a busy day or looking for a healthy treat, these homemade granola bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. They’re customizable, easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients that will fuel your day. Get ready to enjoy a delightful and nutritious snack that you can feel good about!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts)
– 1 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
– 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 granola bars. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 180 calories, 8g of protein, 10g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking pan (9×9 inches) with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats and chopped nuts.
4. In a saucepan, combine honey and nut butter over medium heat.
5. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and salt.
7. Pour the honey-nut butter mixture over the oats and nuts.
8. Stir in dried fruits and chocolate chips (if using).
9. Pack the mixture tightly into the prepared baking pan.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
12. Store in an airtight container.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your granola bars by substituting ingredients. For example, use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan option, or swap nuts for seeds if you have allergies. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These granola bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go or an afternoon snack. Pair them with yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. They also make a great 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 extended freshness. For longer storage, freeze individual bars in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip lining the pan; it makes removal easier.
– Avoid overbaking; check for golden edges.
– Ensure the mixture is packed tightly for proper texture.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t forget to let them cool completely before cutting.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different nuts and seeds for variety.
– Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or syrup.
– Use a food processor for a finer texture if preferred.
– Try adding protein powder for an extra boost.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide a chewier texture that is preferable for granola bars. Quick oats may result in a softer bar.
How do I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free granola bars, ensure that all ingredients, especially oats, are certified gluten-free. Substitute wheat-based ingredients appropriately.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder. Start with one scoop and adjust the wet ingredients slightly to maintain the bar’s texture.
What can I substitute for nut butter?
If you’re allergic to nuts, you can use sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) or soy nut butter as an alternative.
How do I prevent my granola bars from being too crumbly?
Make sure to pack the mixture tightly into the pan before baking. A higher ratio of binding ingredients like honey and nut butter can also help.
Conclusion
Making homemade granola bars is not only easy but also rewarding. With endless possibilities for customization, you can create a snack that perfectly suits your taste preferences. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your food, and savor the deliciousness of these wholesome bars!
Homemade Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts almonds, walnuts, or peanuts
- 1 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup nut butter peanut, almond, or cashew
- 1/2 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking pan (9x9 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats and chopped nuts.
- In a saucepan, combine honey and nut butter over medium heat.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the honey-nut butter mixture over the oats and nuts.
- Stir in dried fruits and chocolate chips (if using).
- Pack the mixture tightly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Nutrition
