Homemade Granola Bars: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack that's also easy to make? Look no further than homemade granola bars! This recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families alike, providing a nutritious and satisfying treat without the added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought versions. Let's dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking) — The base of our delicious bars!
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!) — Adds healthy fats and crunch!
- ½ cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, chia – get creative!) — Boosts the nutritional profile!
- ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots – mix and match!) — Provides natural sweetness!
- ¼ cup coconut flakes (optional, but adds a lovely texture!) — Enhances the flavor and adds a tropical twist!
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon — Warm spices elevate the taste!
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) — Another spice option for a richer flavor!
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Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup — Natural sweeteners that bind the bars!
- ¼ cup nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew – choose your favorite!) — Adds healthy fats and creamy texture!
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted — Acts as a binder and adds richness!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — Enhances the overall flavor!
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious granola bars:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, coconut flakes (if using), cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well to distribute everything evenly.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is thoroughly coated. Make sure all the oats are evenly moistened.
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Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and firmly press it down into an even layer. This is crucial for creating solid bars. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or spatula to ensure even compression.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola bars are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
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Cool & Cut: Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into your desired size and shape. The bars will firm up as they cool.
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Store & Enjoy: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Perfect Granola Bar:
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Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations. Chocolate chips, pretzels, or even dried shredded coconut are great additions.
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Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet granola bar, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup.
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Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding protein powder or nuts like almonds or cashews.
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Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure your bars are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Storage: For longer storage, consider freezing your granola bars in an airtight container or freezer bag. They'll last for several months.
This homemade granola bar recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a healthy and delicious snack anytime. Enjoy the process of creating your own customized granola bars and savor the delightful results!
