Irresistible Homemade Granola Bars: Easy & Delicious Recipe

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Homemade granola bars are like a hug in snack form. Picture this: chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruits all wrapped up in one delightful bite. High Protein Yogurt Bark The smell wafting through your kitchen as they bake will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if your cooking skills are limited to boiling water. Homemade Samoas Cookies No Bake Carrot Cake Bites

These homemade granola bars are the perfect solution for those hectic mornings when you need breakfast on the go or a midday pick-me-up that doesn’t involve a trip to the vending machine. They’re customizable, nutritious, and packed with flavors that will leave you craving more. For more inspiration, check out this lemon lavender cookies recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These homemade granola bars require minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor
  • You can easily swap ingredients based on your taste preferences or pantry staples
  • Their vibrant colors and textures make them visually appealing as well
  • Perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or an afternoon snack!

I remember the first time I made these granola bars; my kids thought I was some sort of wizard conjuring up magical snacks. Their eyes lit up as they devoured every last crumb!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Choose large flakes for better texture; they hold together beautifully in baked goods.

  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for a rich flavor or honey for extra stickiness.

  • Nut Butter: Almond butter adds creaminess; peanut butter offers a classic taste—choose based on your preference. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cups.

  • Dried Fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or apricots work well; feel free to mix and match for variety.

  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds add crunch and nutrition—pick your favorites!

  • Dark Chocolate Chips (optional): A handful of chocolate chips can elevate the flavor experience; use dark chocolate for a healthier option.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this watermelon feta salad recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits until everything is evenly distributed and colorful.

Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter until smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.

Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press it firmly into an even layer; this step is crucial for firm bars.

Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm hug!

Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.

Now that you’ve created a delicious batch of homemade granola bars, prepare yourself for rave reviews from friends and family! You might even find yourself becoming the neighborhood’s go-to snack provider!

You Must Know

  • Homemade granola bars are perfect for a quick snack, but they can also be a delicious breakfast option
  • The aroma of baking oats will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to join you for a taste test
  • Plus, they’re customizable based on your favorite flavors and ingredients

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing dry ingredients first, then combine with wet ingredients for even distribution. Bake them until golden brown but not too hard to ensure a chewy texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences. You can also add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier treat
  • Ensure all ingredients are mixed well to avoid clumping, giving each bar consistent flavor and texture
  • Let the mixture cool before cutting; this helps maintain their shape beautifully

I remember the first time I made homemade granola bars; they turned out so good that my friends devoured them before I could snap a picture!

FAQs

FAQ

How do I make my homemade granola bars chewier?

Add more liquid sweeteners like honey or nut butter to enhance chewiness.

Can I substitute oats with another grain?

Yes, quinoa flakes or rice cereal can be used as alternatives to oats.

What is the best way to cut granola bars?

Use a sharp knife and let them cool completely for cleaner cuts.

Print
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Homemade Granola Bars


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  • Author: Larissa W.
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Homemade granola bars are the ideal snack—chewy, crunchy, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, these bars are customizable to fit your taste preferences. With the delightful aroma of oats baking in your kitchen, you’ll feel like a culinary pro in no time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (almond or peanut)
  • 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
  • 1/2 cup mixed nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, blend honey (or maple syrup) with nut butter until smooth. Pour over the dry mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown; let cool completely before cutting into bars.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Tags:

breakfast ideas / dried fruits / easy recipes / granola bars / healthy snacks / homemade snacks / oat recipes / snack recipes

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