Homemade granola bars recipe

Granola bars are a popular snack choice for many people. They are tasty, convenient, and can be quite healthy. However, store-bought options often contain added sugars and preservatives. This is where a homemade granola bars recipe shines! Making your own granola bars allows you to control the ingredients and customize them to your liking.

Why Choose a Homemade Granola Bars Recipe?

Choosing a homemade granola bars recipe comes with several benefits. First, you can select high-quality ingredients. This means no artificial flavors or unhealthy additives. You can use organic oats, natural sweeteners, and fresh nuts. Second, making granola bars at home is cost-effective. Buying ingredients in bulk can save you money compared to purchasing pre-packaged bars.

Moreover, homemade granola bars are versatile. You can mix and match ingredients based on your taste preferences. Want to add chocolate chips? Go for it! Prefer dried fruits? Toss them in! This flexibility makes it easy to create a snack that suits your family’s needs.

Lastly, making granola bars can be a fun activity. Involving kids in the kitchen can teach them about healthy eating. Plus, it’s a great way to bond as a family. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious homemade granola bars recipe!

Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

To create the perfect homemade granola bars recipe, you need a few essential ingredients. These ingredients not only provide flavor but also ensure the bars hold together well. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups (about 180 g) – Oats are the base of your granola bars. They add fiber and help bind the mixture.
  • Almonds: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g) – Almonds add a nice crunch and healthy fats.
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1/2 cup (about 120 ml) – This natural sweetener helps to bind the ingredients together.
  • Peanut butter or almond butter: 1/2 cup (about 120 g) – Nut butter adds creaminess and flavor.
  • Dried fruit: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g) – Choose your favorite dried fruits for sweetness and texture.
  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds: 1/4 cup (about 40 g) – These seeds are packed with nutrients and add a nice crunch.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml) – A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (about 1 g) – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.

Optional Add-ins for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

While the essential ingredients are key, you can also customize your homemade granola bars recipe with optional add-ins. These extras can enhance flavor and nutrition:

  • Chocolate chips: Add 1/2 cup for a sweet treat.
  • Other nuts: Try walnuts, pecans, or cashews for different textures.
  • Seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can add crunch and nutrients.
  • Spices: Cinnamon or nutmeg can give your bars a warm flavor.
  • Nutmeg: A pinch can add a unique twist to your bars.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect granola bar. The beauty of a homemade granola bars recipe is that you can make it truly your own!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

First things first, you need to preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your granola bars. While the oven heats up, you can prepare the baking dish and other ingredients. This way, you’ll be ready to go when the oven is hot!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Next, grab an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some paper hanging over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later. A well-prepared dish ensures your granola bars come out easily and stay intact.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Now, it’s time to mix the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, dried fruit, chia seeds or flaxseeds, and salt. Stir everything together well. This step is important because it ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout your granola bars.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

In a small saucepan, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter (or almond butter). Heat this mixture over low heat. Stir continuously until it becomes smooth and well combined. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and add the vanilla extract. This mixture will add sweetness and help bind your bars together.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Pour the warm honey and nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in your mixing bowl. Stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are coated. The mixture should feel sticky. This stickiness is what helps the bars hold together once baked.

Step 6: Bake the Mixture for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly into an even layer. Make sure it’s compact. This step is crucial for ensuring your bars hold their shape. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Cut the Bars for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time is important. It allows the bars to firm up. After they’ve cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into rectangular bars. Now, your delicious homemade granola bars are ready to enjoy!

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Tips for Perfect Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Storage Tips for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

To keep your homemade granola bars recipe fresh, proper storage is key. First, let the bars cool completely before storing them. This prevents moisture from making them soggy. Once cooled, place the bars in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. This can extend their freshness for up to two weeks.

If you plan to store them for an even longer time, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy a bar, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. This way, you’ll always have a healthy snack on hand!

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Your homemade granola bars recipe can be enjoyed in many ways! They make a perfect on-the-go snack. Pack them in lunchboxes for a nutritious treat at school or work. You can also serve them as a quick breakfast option. Pair a granola bar with a piece of fruit or a yogurt for a balanced meal.

For a fun twist, crumble the bars over a bowl of yogurt or oatmeal. This adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor. You can also dip them in melted chocolate for a sweet treat. Just remember, moderation is key! No matter how you serve them, these bars are sure to please everyone.

Variation of Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

Nut-Free Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

If you or someone in your family has nut allergies, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a delicious homemade granola bars recipe without nuts. Simply replace the chopped almonds with seeds. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work great! They add crunch and nutrition without the risk of allergies.

Here’s a quick guide for your nut-free version:

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups (about 180 g)
  • Sunflower seeds: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1/2 cup (about 120 ml)
  • Sunflower seed butter: 1/2 cup (about 120 g) – This replaces nut butter.
  • Dried fruit: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds: 1/4 cup (about 40 g)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml)
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (about 1 g)

Follow the same preparation steps as the original recipe. You’ll have tasty nut-free granola bars that everyone can enjoy!

Chocolate Chip Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

For those who love a sweet treat, adding chocolate chips to your homemade granola bars recipe is a fantastic idea! Chocolate chips bring a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

To make chocolate chip granola bars, simply add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture during the final mixing step. Here’s a quick list of ingredients:

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups (about 180 g)
  • Almonds: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1/2 cup (about 120 ml)
  • Peanut butter or almond butter: 1/2 cup (about 120 g)
  • Dried fruit: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds: 1/4 cup (about 40 g)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml)
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (about 1 g)
  • Chocolate chips: 1/2 cup (about 90 g)

Mix the chocolate chips in with the dry ingredients before combining with the wet mixture. Bake as usual, and you’ll have delicious chocolate chip granola bars that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

FAQs about Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

How long do homemade granola bars last?

Homemade granola bars can last up to a week when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want them to stay fresh longer, refrigerating them can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. For even longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrapped individually, they can last for several months in the freezer. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze homemade granola bars?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze homemade granola bars! Freezing is a great way to keep them fresh for a longer time. To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat one, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. This way, you’ll always have a healthy snack ready to go!

What can I substitute for honey in a homemade granola bars recipe?

If you prefer not to use honey, there are several great substitutes. Maple syrup is a popular choice and adds a lovely flavor. Agave nectar is another option that works well. For a sugar-free alternative, you can use mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may change the texture slightly, so adjust the other ingredients as needed.

Are homemade granola bars healthy?

Yes, homemade granola bars can be a healthy snack option! They are packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds. You can control the amount of sugar and choose natural sweeteners. Plus, you can add dried fruits for extra vitamins and minerals. By making them at home, you avoid the preservatives and unhealthy additives often found in store-bought bars. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

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Homemade granola bars recipe Discover a healthy treat!

Homemade granola bars recipe

  • Author: Louna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A healthy and customizable homemade granola bars recipe that allows you to control the ingredients and avoid added sugars and preservatives.


Ingredients

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups (about 180 g)
  • Almonds: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1/2 cup (about 120 ml)
  • Peanut butter or almond butter: 1/2 cup (about 120 g)
  • Dried fruit: 1 cup, chopped (about 150 g)
  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds: 1/4 cup (about 40 g)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml)
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (about 1 g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish lined with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, dried fruit, chia seeds or flaxseeds, and salt.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter (or almond butter) over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
  5. Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly into an even layer.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Let cool completely in the pan, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into bars.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • Refrigerate for up to two weeks for longer freshness.
  • Freeze individually wrapped bars for several months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: granola bars, healthy snack, homemade, recipe

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