Easy Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

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Craving a healthy and delicious snack? Look no further! These easy homemade granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, customizable to your taste, and perfect for on-the-go energy.

Why Make Your Own Granola Bars?

Store-bought granola bars are often loaded with excessive sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Making your own allows you to control exactly what goes into them, ensuring a healthier and tastier snack. Plus, it's surprisingly simple! — ¿Juan Gabriel Vive? Rumores Y La Verdad

What You'll Need: Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars

  • 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
  • 1 cup nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds – your choice!)
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots)
  • 1/4 cup sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or agave)
  • 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Chocolate chips
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chia seeds or flax seeds

Step-by-Step Guide: Baking Your Granola Bars

  1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetener, nut butter, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
  4. Mix Everything Together: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated. Make sure no dry oat is left.
  5. Press Firmly: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands. The firmer you press, the better the bars will hold together.
  6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
  7. Cool & Cut: Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This is crucial for them to set properly. Cooling in the fridge can speed up the process.

Tips for Perfect Granola Bars

  • Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
  • Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly bars.
  • Press firmly: This is key to getting the bars to stick together.
  • Customize: Get creative with your add-ins! Try different combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to find your favorite.

Health Benefits of Homemade Granola Bars

These homemade granola bars aren't just delicious; they're also packed with nutritional benefits:

  • Fiber: Oats and nuts provide plenty of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full.
  • Healthy Fats: Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and overall well-being.
  • Energy Boost: The combination of carbs, fats, and protein provides sustained energy, making these bars perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack.

Storing Your Granola Bars

Store your homemade granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer storage. — Neil Young: What "Big Crime" Is Everyone Talking About?

Final Thoughts

Making your own granola bars is a rewarding experience. You get to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and customized snack that's far better than anything you can buy at the store. So, get in the kitchen and start experimenting with your favorite flavors today! Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Share with friends and family.

CTA: Try our recipe and share your creations on social media using #HomemadeGranolaBars! — ABCya Games: Fun & Educational Games For Kids