Healthy Granola Bars
These healthy granola bars are a perfect homemade snack that combines wholesome ingredients for a nutritious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats adds bulk and chewy texture
- ¾ cup roughly chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, or a mix) provides crunch and healthy fats
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds or pepitas adds nutty flavor and texture
- ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes adds a touch of sweetness and chewiness
Binding Ingredients
- ½ cup honey binds the mixture together while adding natural sweetness
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter adds moisture and rich flavor
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract enhances overall flavor
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt balances sweetness
Add-ins
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit or nuts adds a sweet or chewy contrast
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, chopped nuts, sunflower seeds or pepitas, and coconut flakes.
- In a separate bowl, blend the honey, creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and combine everything until the dry ingredients are fully coated.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts based on your preference.
Baking
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it slightly and press the mixture firmly into the dish.
- Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature for about an hour.
- Once cooled, remove the mixture from the baking dish and cut into bars or squares as desired.
Notes
For best results, press the mixture firmly into the baking dish and allow to cool completely before cutting. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.