Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Granola Bars are a great snack option. They are easy to make, healthy, and can be customized to suit your taste. You get to control what goes into them, making them a better choice than store-bought options. Plus, they are perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a quick energy boost during the day.
How to Make Homemade Granola Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup very smooth creamy natural peanut butter
- ⅔ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Heaping ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2½ cups whole rolled oats
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 3 tablespoons pepitas (or crushed peanuts or cashews)
Directions:
- Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Add the oats, chocolate chips, and the pepitas (or nuts). The mixture may seem dry at first, but keep stirring. It will come together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan. Use a second piece of parchment paper and the back of a measuring cup to help flatten it.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, then slice into bars.
- Store the bars in the fridge.
How to Serve Homemade Granola Bars
You can enjoy Homemade Granola Bars as they are. They make a fantastic on-the-go snack and can also be served with yogurt or mixed fruits for a more filling treat.
How to Store Homemade Granola Bars
Store your Homemade Granola Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep them fresh and chewy for about a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them.
Tips to Make Homemade Granola Bars
- Make sure to use very smooth peanut butter for the best texture.
- If you find the mixture too dry, feel free to add a bit more honey or peanut butter.
- Press down firmly to compact the mixture in the pan for well-formed bars.
Variation
You can switch up the ingredients based on your preferences. Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter. Feel free to change the nuts, or use dried fruits like cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate chips.
FAQs
1. Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter you like.
2. How long do these bars last?
Homemade Granola Bars last about a week in the fridge, or up to three months in the freezer.
3. Can I make them vegan?
Yes! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make them vegan-friendly.
