Homemade Granola Bars: Nutritious, Delicious, and Easy to Make

September 04, 2024

Homemade Granola Bars

If you're searching for a healthy snack that's both satisfying and convenient, these delightful treats are perfect for breakfast on the go, an afternoon energy boost, or a wholesome addition to your lunchbox. Make them at home and customise your ingredients, control sweetness, and avoid the additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!

Why Homemade?

1. Control Ingredients: By making granola bars at home, you can choose wholesome, nutritious ingredients and avoid excess sugars and artificial additives.
2. Customisation: Adjust the recipe to your taste preferences—add your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or even a touch of chocolate for a treat!
3. Cost-Effective: Homemade granola bars are often cheaper than store-bought varieties, especially when you buy ingredients in bulk.

Basic Ingredients

Here's our basic recipe to get you started. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups organic rolled oats
• 1 cup nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews), roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup seeds (like sunflower or pepitas)
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots), chopped if large
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup nut butter (like almond or peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• optional: Chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. If you're using chocolate chips or cacao nibs, add them to the mix as well.
2. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed.
3. Press and Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands. This helps the bars stick together better. Bake in a preheated oven at 160C for 15-20 mins or until golden brown

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a couple of weeks.
• Freezing: You can also freeze granola bars for up to three months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Creative Variations

• Nut-Free: Substitute nuts with additional seeds or puffed rice for a nut-free option.
• Superfood Boost: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds for extra nutrition.
• Flavour Twists: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cacao powder for different flavour profiles.

Final Thoughts

Homemade granola bars are not only a tasty snack but also a fantastic way to ensure you're fuelling your body with healthy ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a batch for yourself or making them as a thoughtful gift, these bars are sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients and get baking!

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