Granola Bars
Indulge in these homemade Granola Bars, a perfect blend of crunchy, chewy, and sweet. Packed with hearty rolled oats, a medley of nuts, and the delightful sweetness of honey and chocolate chips, these bars are the ultimate snack solution. Whether you're rushing out the door in the morning or need a satisfying midday pick-me-up, these granola bars are your quick and wholesome answer.
Servings: 8
Calories: 485kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds or other nuts, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup pepitas
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup butter unsalted, melted
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- Spread the oats and almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted. Transfer the oats to a large bowl.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat until well blended and smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, nuts, pepitas, and dried cranberries.Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well coated.
- Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then stir in the chocolate chips and pecans (if using).
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Transfer the pan to the fridge and chill for 2 hours.
- Cut the bars into desired size and shape. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Notes
- Nut Substitutions: Feel free to swap the almonds with walnuts, pecans, or any nut of your choice.
- Vegan Option: Replace honey with maple syrup and use a vegan butter substitute to keep these bars plant-based.
- Mix-In Variations: Get creative and add in shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, or a dash of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Press Firmly: Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan; this helps the bars hold together once they are cut.
- Storing Tips: Keep the bars in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunch.
Nutrition
Serving: 1bar | Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 226mg | Potassium: 329mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 203IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 2mg
