Name: Healthy Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup roughly chopped nuts ((like almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, or a mix)); 1 cup sunflower seeds or pepitas (or additional chopped nuts); 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1/2 cup honey; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (or nuts)

If you’re in search of a wholesome and satisfying snack, look no further! These Healthy Granola Bars are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of energy and nutrition. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a pick-me-up during the day, these bars are loaded with wholesome ingredients that won’t leave you feeling guilty. With a delightful mixture of oats, nuts, seeds, and a touch of sweetness, they are sure to become a family favorite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the best things about these Healthy Granola Bars is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or whatever you have on hand. Whether you prefer your bars chewy or crunchy, these granola bars can easily adapt. They are free from artificial ingredients and refined sugars, allowing you to enjoy a snack that is both nourishing and delicious. Plus, they are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a great option for fueling your day.

Ingredient List

To create your own batch of Healthy Granola Bars, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup roughly chopped nuts (like almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, or a mix)
1 cup sunflower seeds or pepitas or additional chopped nuts
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit or nuts

Tools of the Trade

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:

Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
9×13-inch baking dish – to hold your granola bars while they set.
Parchment paper – to line the baking dish for easy removal.
Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing the ingredients well.
Sharp knife – to cut the bars into perfect squares or rectangles.

Build Healthy Granola Bars Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly baked texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line your 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the granola bars out later.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, coconut flakes, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, creamy peanut butter, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until the dry ingredients are fully coated.

Step 6: Add Mix-ins

Fold in the mini chocolate chips or dried fruit, if using. This adds a delightful surprise in every bite of your Healthy Granola Bars.

Step 7: Press into Baking Dish

Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or your hands to ensure the bars hold together once baked.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars or squares.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking for low-carb or keto options for your Healthy Granola Bars, consider these alternatives:

Replace honey with sugar-free syrup or a low-carb sweetener like erythritol.
Use almond flour instead of rolled oats for a lower-carb base.
Incorporate more seeds like chia or flaxseeds instead of nuts to keep the carb count down.
Opt for unsweetened chocolate chips or omit chocolate altogether for fewer carbs.

What Not to Do

Creating the perfect Healthy Granola Bars is straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Do not skip the pressing step; it’s crucial for keeping the bars together.
Avoid overbaking; this can lead to dry, crumbly bars.
Do not skimp on the nut butter or sweetener; they help bind the ingredients together.
Don’t forget to let the bars cool completely before cutting; this will help them hold their shape.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Storing your Healthy Granola Bars properly is essential to keep them fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
You can refrigerate them for even longer shelf life—up to two weeks.
For longer storage, freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Quick Q&A

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use quick oats, they will result in a different texture. Rolled oats provide a chewier bite, while quick oats may make your bars softer and less structured.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as an excellent alternative to peanut butter.

Can I make these granola bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make your Healthy Granola Bars vegan-friendly.

How can I make them more nutritious?

Add ingredients like flaxseeds, chia seeds, or protein powder to boost the nutritional content of your bars.

That’s a Wrap

These Healthy Granola Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious snack without any guilt. With the combination of hearty oats, wholesome nuts, and the natural sweetness of honey, these bars will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick snack, this recipe is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in these deliciously healthy treats!