Description
Homemade Granola Bars are chewy, wholesome snacks made with oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, nuts, dried fruit, and optional add‑ins like chocolate chips or seeds. They’re easy to make, customizable, and great for breakfast or on‑the‑go snacking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped dates, or apricots)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8‑inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and combined. Stir in vanilla and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, flaxseed or chia (if using), and chocolate chips (if using).
- Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to form an even, compact layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once chilled, lift the granola mixture out using the parchment overhang and slice into 10–12 bars or rectangles.
Notes
- Use sunflower seed butter for a nut‑free version.
- Add shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Stir in a scoop of protein powder for a protein boost.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before chilling for a dessert‑style bar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
