Nutty Granola Bars Simple and Healthy Snack Ideas

Looking for a quick, tasty snack that packs a nutritious punch? Nutty granola bars are the perfect choice! I love making these simple bars filled with rolled oats, mixed nuts, and dried fruit. They’re easy to whip up and great for busy days. In this post, I’ll share the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for variations. Let’s get started on making your new favorite healthy snack!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), roughly chopped

– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds

– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/4 cup almond butter (or your preferred nut butter)

– 1/2 cup dried fruit (choose from cranberries, apricots, or raisins)

– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended for warmth)

Substitutions and Alternatives

If you want to switch things up, consider these ideas:

– Nut butter options: peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work great.

– Sweetener alternatives: you can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup instead of honey.

– Dried fruit varieties: try using figs, dates, or coconut for unique flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a good bake. Next, prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to lift out the bars later.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, mixed nuts, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit. Add sea salt and ground cinnamon if you like. Mix these dry ingredients well. It should look colorful and inviting!

Preparing the Wet Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the honey and almond butter together. Stir continuously until the mix is smooth and well-blended. Then, take it off the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract for added flavor.

Combining and Baking

Now, pour the warm nut butter mixture over your dry ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything until all the dry ingredients are coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish. Press it firmly into an even layer. This helps the bars hold their shape after baking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

For extra flavor, try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. You can also mix in different nuts or seeds for more crunch.

Ensuring Proper Binding

Make sure to mix well to coat all ingredients. When you press the mixture down, make it as compact as possible. This helps with binding.

Serving Suggestions

These bars pair well with yogurt or fresh fruits. They make a great snack or quick breakfast!

You learned how to make nutty granola bars step by step. We covered ingredients, alternatives, and easy storage. Remember, you can change flavors and mix in your favorite nuts or fruits. Don’t forget to follow the baking tips for the best texture. Making these bars lets you enjoy a healthy snack without preservatives. With practice, you’ll create a perfect batch every time. So, get started now and enjoy your homemade treat!

- Nutty Granola Bars

Craving a delicious and healthy snack? Try these nutty granola bars that are as easy to make as they are tasty! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, mixed nuts, and dried fruit, these bars are perfect for busy days. In this post, you'll find step-by-step instructions along with tips for delicious variations! Click through now to discover your new favorite healthy snack recipe and enjoy a quick energy boost!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), roughly chopped

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup almond butter (or your preferred nut butter)

1/2 cup dried fruit (choose from cranberries, apricots, or raisins)

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended for warmth)

Instructions

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to aid in easy removal later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, roughly chopped mixed nuts, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, sea salt, and ground cinnamon (if you've chosen to use it). Mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly until uniformly combined.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and almond butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Once combined, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract for added flavor.

Carefully pour the warm nut butter mixture over your bowl of dry ingredients. With a spatula or a large spoon, mix everything vigorously until all dry ingredients are evenly coated in the sticky mixture, ensuring no dry oats or nuts remain.

Transfer the coated mixture into your prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture down firmly into an even, flat layer. This helps the bars maintain their shape once baked.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until you notice the edges turning a lovely golden brown color.

After baking, take the pan out of the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire granola slab out of the dish.

With a sharp knife, cut the cooled mixture into bars of your desired size. Enjoy your homemade nutty granola bars as a delicious snack or breakfast on-the-go!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

- Presentation Tips: For a beautiful display, stack the granola bars neatly on a plate and drizzle a little extra honey or nut butter over the top, garnishing with a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added texture and appeal.