There are few snacks that are as nutritious, quick and delicious as granola bars – throw one in your purse and you are good to go! Although there are a variety of granola bars available in-store, if you have a little time it’s always great to make your own and fill them with whatever ingredients strike your fancy. Plus, with homemade granola bars you avoid the preservatives and other additives that are usually included in the store bought brands. Here is a simple and delicious recipe (adapted from here) to get you started, and if you are feeling extra creative in the kitchen, substitute any of the ingredients for something that your own taste buds are craving. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
2 cup organic oatmeal (old fashioned rolled oats)
1 cup nuts, sliced almonds, chopped pecans or walnuts (raw almonds are always great for this foodie project)
1 cup shredded coconut, loosely packed
1/4 cup flax seeds or sesame seeds or sunflower seeds (peeled)
3 tbs unsalted butter
2/3 cup honey
1/4 cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed
1-1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 cup chopped dried fruit – try a dried cherries, raisins, cranberries and even apricots combination!
*You can add chocolate chips or yogurt chips for the kids to enjoy.
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Butter an 8×12-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment or waxed paper.
- Toss the oatmeal, nuts, and coconut together. Lay them out on a sheet pan, and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is lightly browned. Transfer it to a large mixing bowl; stir in the flax seeds.
- Put the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt into a small saucepan. Bring them to a boil over medium heat.* Cook for about a minute, then pour the mixture over the toasted oatmeal mixture. Add the dried fruit and stir well.
- Pour into the prepared pan. Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool the result for 2 to 3 hours before beginning cutting. Wrap the bars in individual servings and store them in your pantry.
