Chewy Granola Bars
Homemade chewy granola bars have become a staple in the pantries of health-conscious individuals and busy families alike. These versatile snacks offer a perfect blend of convenience and nutrition, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to fuel their day with a wholesome bite.
Unlike their store-bought counterparts, homemade granola bars give you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid preservatives and additives that often lurk in pre-packaged options. This means you can select high-quality, natural ingredients and tailor the bars to your dietary preferences, whether that’s gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free.
The base of these bars typically includes rolled oats, which are a fantastic source of fiber and help to promote digestive health. Oats are also packed with important vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and zinc, and they provide slow-releasing energy that helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals.
Sweeteners in homemade granola bars can vary from honey and maple syrup to brown rice syrup or agave nectar. These natural sweeteners not only bind the ingredients together to achieve that desirable chewy texture but also add a touch of sweetness without the need for refined sugars. For those monitoring their sugar intake, the amount and type of sweetener can be adjusted to suit individual tastes and health requirements.
Nuts and seeds are common mix-ins that contribute a satisfying crunch and boost the nutritional profile of the bars. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein, while seeds like chia, flax, or pumpkin can provide additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The inclusion of dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins adds natural sweetness and chewiness, along with antioxidants and vitamins.
One of the joys of making granola bars at home is the ability to experiment with flavors and textures. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract can be added for warmth and depth of flavor. Chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate can transform the bars into a decadent treat, while still maintaining a healthier profile than most commercial candy bars.
For those with active lifestyles, homemade chewy granola bars are a godsend. They’re easily portable, making them a great option for hiking trips, long bike rides, or as a quick post-workout snack. They also serve as a convenient and mess-free snack for children, providing sustained energy throughout the school day or during extracurricular activities.
Moreover, the environmental impact of making granola bars at home should not be overlooked. By reducing the reliance on individually wrapped snacks, you can significantly cut down on plastic waste. Using reusable containers to store and transport your homemade bars is a small step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, homemade granola bars are a clear winner. Buying ingredients in bulk and preparing batches of bars can lead to substantial savings over time, especially when compared to the premium prices often charged for artisanal or organic snack bars in stores.
Homemade chewy granola bars represent more than just a simple snack; they embody a conscious choice towards better health, personalized nutrition, and environmental responsibility. With endless possibilities for customization, they cater to a wide array of tastes and dietary needs, proving that delicious and nutritious can indeed go hand in hand. Whether you’re a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or a parent on the go, these bars are sure to become a cherished part of your snacking repertoire.
Chewy Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almonds coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans chopped
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of a 9 x 9 pan with foil. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Add the oats, almonds and pecans to a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and toasted, 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and set aside. Turn oven off.
- Meanwhile add butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla and salt to a small saucepan. Stir until just melted and the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the butter into the oat and nut mixture, mix well. Allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 minutes before folding in the chocolate chips.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and firmly press the mixture down with a spatula. This is important to making it stay together.
- Place in the refrigerator for 2 hours to firm up.
- Lift up the bars out of the pan by grabbing the sides of foil.
- Cut into 12 bars and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
