Introduction
Granola bars are a delicious and convenient snack option that are perfect for those who are always on-the-go. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or out for a hike, granola bars are a great way to keep your energy levels up and your hunger at bay. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to making granola bars, a recipe roundup, healthy granola bar options, the best granola bar toppings, granola bars for on-the-go snacking, and even some creative granola bar recipe ideas!
A Step-by-Step Guide
Before we get started with the recipe, you’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g. almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g. raisins, cranberries, cherries)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Equipment: mixing bowl, baking pan, parchment paper, spatula
Once you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the honey/maple syrup, melted coconut oil/butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the oat mixture, and stir until everything is well combined and coated.
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper, and pour the mixture in. Use a spatula to press the mixture down firmly and evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Remove the pan from the oven, and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, remove the granola from the pan using the parchment paper, and cut it into bars or squares as desired.
- Enjoy!
Recipe Roundup
If you’re looking for some inspiration for different granola bar recipes, here are a few from various sources:
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola Bars: These granola bars use peanut butter, jelly, and chia seeds for a tasty twist on a classic flavor combination. Recipe: Eating Well
- Chocolate Chip Granola Bars: This simple recipe adds chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness. Recipe: Allrecipes
- Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars: This recipe uses applesauce and cinnamon for a warm, comforting flavor. Recipe: Super Healthy Kids
Healthy Granola Bar Options
When making granola bars, it’s important to choose healthy and nutritious ingredients. Here are some suggestions:
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, and flax seeds all add healthy fats and protein to your granola bars.
- Oats: Rolled oats are a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, cherries, and apricots are all delicious options, and provide natural sweetness to your granola bars.
If you’re looking for ways to make your granola bars even healthier, try substituting unhealthy ingredients with these healthier substitutes:
- Swap out refined sugar for honey or maple syrup.
- Use coconut oil or nut butter instead of butter.
- Replace chocolate chips with cacao nibs for a healthier chocolate alternative.
Best Granola Bar Toppings
If you want to take your granola bars to the next level, try adding some delicious toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Chocolate and Sea Salt: Melt some dark chocolate, and drizzle it over your granola bars. Sprinkle some sea salt on top for a delicious savory-sweet combination.
- Almond Butter and Jam: Spread some almond butter and your favorite jam on top of your granola bars for a delicious breakfast-inspired snack.
- Coconut and Mango: Add some shredded coconut and diced dried mango to the top of your granola bars for a tropical twist.
Granola Bars for On-the-Go Snackers
Granola bars are the perfect snack for people who are always on-the-go. Here are some tips for making and storing granola bars that are perfect for taking with you:
- Use airtight containers to store your granola bars. This will help keep them fresh for longer.
- If you’re going on a hike or a long car ride, pack individual granola bars in a resealable plastic bag for easy snacking.
- Try incorporating granola bars into other snacks like trail mix for a tasty and energy-boosting snack.
Creative Granola Bar Recipes
If you’re feeling adventurous, try these fun and creative recipes for granola bars:
- S’mores Granola Bars: These granola bars use marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate chips for a delicious s’mores-inspired treat. Recipe: Bakerita
- Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars: This recipe uses pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup for a delicious fall-inspired snack. Recipe: Pinch of Yum
- Matcha Green Tea Granola Bars: Add some green tea powder for a unique and healthy twist on granola bars. Recipe: Feasting on Fruit
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make delicious and healthy granola bars, there’s no limit to the flavors and combinations you can try. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on-the-go or something to fuel you on a hike, granola bars are the perfect choice.
