Homemade Granola Bars: Easy Recipe for Healthy On-the-Go Snacks
Learn how to make delicious, healthy homemade granola bars with this easy DIY recipe. Customize with your favorite ingredients for perfect on-the-go snacks and breakfasts.
What You'll Need
- 2 cups rolled oats (not instant)
- 1 cup mixed nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds), roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter or coconut oil
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Making your own homemade granola bars is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy, delicious, and customizable snacks or breakfasts on the go. Forget store-bought bars.
Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts and seeds, dried fruit, shredded coconut (if using), and salt. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, and butter (or coconut oil). Heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until all the oats and mix-ins are evenly coated.
Press into Pan and Bake
Transfer the granola bar mixture to the prepared baking pan. Using the back of a spoon, a spatula, or your hands (lightly moistened to prevent sticking), press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool Completely and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the slab out. Cut into bars of your desired size.
Storage
Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
