Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

There’s something absolutely heartwarming about the process of making homemade granola bars. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings together loved ones in the kitchen, a place where laughter and delicious aromas mix in the most delightful way. Why settle for store-bought when you can create something special, filled with wholesome ingredients and love? These homemade granola bars are perfect for morning snacks, lunchbox treats, or that much-needed afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re looking to introduce healthier choices or simply want to spend quality time creating in the kitchen, this recipe is your go-to. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious goodness — each bite a combination of crunchy oats, flavorful nuts, and sweet, chewy dried fruits. Your family will thank you!

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans, roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, chopped)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the oats and chopped nuts.
3. On medium heat, melt the honey and peanut butter together in a small saucepan. Stir continuously until well blended.
4. Remove the honey mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the honey mixture over the oats and nuts and stir until everything is well coated.
6. Fold in the dried fruits.
7. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan using the back of a spoon or your hands.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
9. Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Helpful Tips:

• For easier cutting: Place the bars in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes after they have cooled slightly. This helps them firm up and makes cutting cleaner and easier.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
• Substitution: Feel free to swap out the peanut butter for almond or sunflower butter if you have allergies. Instead of honey, you can use agave syrup for a vegan version.
• Variation: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor, or mix in some dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

Pairings:

• These granola bars pair beautifully with fresh fruit and a cup of herbal tea.
• For a heartier snack, enjoy them with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

At Zynahz, our mission is to sprinkle a bit of joy and creativity into your kitchen, offering recipes that bring families together and celebrate the act of cooking from the heart. We invite you to try these scrumptious granola bars and share your creations with us. Gather your loved ones, mix, bake, and enjoy! Don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family. Dive into the culinary world of Zynahz for more delightful recipes, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates.