Homemade Granola Bars
These homemade granola bars are a nutritious and delicious snack, perfect for on-the-go energy. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, they are easy to make and customizable to your taste.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 baking dish (9x9 inches)
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chocolate chips Optional, for a sweeter version.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift out the bars later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped almonds.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, gently heat the honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter (or almond butter) until melted and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the melted mixture over the oats and almonds. Stir until evenly combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries (or raisins) and chocolate chips if using.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cool, lift the granola mixture out using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 bars using a sharp knife.
Notes
Feel free to customize these bars by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
For a chewier texture, bake for the minimum time and let them sit for a few hours at room temperature before cutting.