Healthy Granola Bar Recipe

Here’s a recipe for Healthy Granola Bars that are not only nutritious but also delicious and easy to make. These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a healthy treat on the go.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/4 cup seeds (such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened dried fruits (such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
• 1/3 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the sides for easy removal.
2. Toast Oats and Nuts:
   • Spread the oats and nuts on a baking sheet.
   • Toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
3. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the toasted oats and nuts with the seeds and dried fruits.
   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), melted butter (or coconut oil), and peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the liquid mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press Into Pan:
   • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan.
   • Press firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon or your hands (wet hands can help prevent sticking).
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Cool and Cut:
   • Let the granola slab cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cool, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the slab out of the pan.
   • Cut into bars or squares.

Tips:

• Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to adjust the nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• For Chewier Bars: Bake for less time or add more honey or peanut butter for a chewier texture.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for a firmer texture.

These homemade granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a great energy-boosting snack that you can feel good about eating any time of the day!