Name: Homemade Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup butter; 1 cup honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 4 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup whole wheat or spelt flour (or all-purpose or gluten-free 1:1 flour); 1/4 cup flax seed meal (optional); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/3 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or whole flaxseeds, or hemp seeds); 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 cup raisins; 1/2 cup chopped peanuts

Delicious homemade granola bars ready to enjoy as a healthy snack.

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introduction

Homemade granola bars are a delightful and healthy snack that you can make right in your own kitchen. They are perfect for breakfast or a quick energy boost during the day. Making your own granola bars allows you to customize the flavors and ingredients, ensuring you know exactly what you’re eating. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious snack, you might find inspiration in this homemade granola bar recipe.

why make this recipe

There are many reasons to make your own granola bars. First, they are healthier than store-bought versions, which often contain added sugars and preservatives. Second, you have total control over the ingredients, so you can make them gluten-free or vegan if needed. Lastly, they are incredibly simple to prepare and can be tailored to suit your specific tastes.

how to make Homemade Granola Bars

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter
1 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla
4½ cups rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat or spelt flour (or all-purpose or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
1/4 cup flax seed meal (optional; if not using, add 1/4 cup more flour)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup total add-ins
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or whole flaxseeds, or hemp seeds)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts

Directions

First, line a 13″ x 9″ pan with parchment or grease it lightly. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the butter, honey, and vanilla, creaming them together well. Add the oats, flour, flax meal (if using), and baking soda, then mix until everything is combined.

Next, stir in the add-ins you’ve chosen. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and firmly press it evenly with your hands (wetting your hands helps if it sticks) or the bottom of a greased glass. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges just start to brown.

After baking, let the pan cool on a rack for about 10 minutes, then score the mixture into bars before allowing it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, remove from the pan, cutting through the bars as needed, and store in airtight containers or baggies in the fridge or freezer.

how to serve Homemade Granola Bars

Homemade granola bars can be enjoyed in many ways. They are perfect for breakfast paired with yogurt or as a quick snack on their own. You can also crumble them over smoothies or oatmeal for added texture. For a fun twist, enjoy them with peanut butter or almond butter spread on top.

how to store Homemade Granola Bars

To keep your granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a few days, but they last longer in the fridge or freezer. If you decide to freeze them, they can stay good for at least 6 months.

tips to make Homemade Granola Bars

Experiment with different add-ins based on your favorite flavors. Dried fruits, nuts, and seeds can give you a unique taste each time.
If you prefer a chewier bar, try adding some more honey or peanut butter to the mixture.
You can also adjust the sweetness by using less honey and adding mashed bananas or applesauce.

variation (if any)

You can customize the recipe further by swapping out the nuts or fruits. For example, you might replace almonds with walnuts or use dried mango instead of cranberries. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and adventurous palate!

FAQs

1. Can I make these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free oats and gluten-free flour to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.

2. How long do homemade granola bars last?

When stored properly, they can last about 1 week at room temperature, 2 weeks in the refrigerator, and up to 6 months in the freezer.

3. Can I use syrup instead of honey?

Sure! Maple syrup can be a great substitute for honey if you’re looking for a vegan option.