Homemade Granola Bars

Name: Homemade Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup nut butter (almond or peanut); ½ cup honey or maple syrup; ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts); ½ cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries); ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Published: July 6, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These homemade granola bars are not only easy to prepare but also deliciously customizable based on your taste preferences
Their vibrant appearance makes them eye-catching, and they provide excellent energy for any occasion
Plus, they offer a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks without sacrificing flavor

I once surprised my family with these homemade granola bars during movie night, and they disappeared faster than popcorn! For more inspiration, check out this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; they hold together nicely while baking.
Nut Butter: I prefer almond butter for its rich flavor, but peanut butter works wonders too. delicious chocolate peanut butter smoothie.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Opt for pure honey or maple syrup to add sweetness and help bind the ingredients.
Chopped Nuts: Choose your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for bursts of sweetness; they balance the flavors perfectly.
Chocolate Chips (optional): A sprinkle of dark chocolate chips elevates the flavor; treat yourself!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for those crunchy edges we all love.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, and any spices like cinnamon if you’re feeling adventurous. indulgent cinnamon rolls Stir until well mixed.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in nut butter and honey or maple syrup into the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated; it should look sticky!

Fold in Extras: Gently fold in your dried fruit and chocolate chips if using. This adds delightful little surprises in every bite.

Press into Pan: Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. Press your mixture firmly into the pan using a spatula; this helps them hold together after baking.

Bake and Cool: Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow them to cool completely before cutting them into squares; patience is key here!

Enjoy making these homemade granola bars—they’re sure to become a staple snack that you’ll crave again and again!

You Must Know

Homemade granola bars are not only nutritious but also customizable
You can experiment with flavors, textures, and even dietary requirements
The sweet aroma while baking fills your kitchen with comfort, making them a perfect snack for any time of day

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then combine with wet ingredients for an even distribution before baking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap nuts for seeds or add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Spice it up with cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Pineapple Mango Bruschetta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store homemade granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for freshness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making homemade granola bars, ensure your mixture holds together well before baking
Use parchment paper to make removal easy and prevent sticking
Always let them cool completely before cutting into bars for a clean finish

It was a rainy Saturday afternoon when I first tried making these granola bars. My friends were skeptical, but once they tasted them, they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were!

FAQ

How long do homemade granola bars last?

Homemade granola bars can last up to one week at room temperature if stored properly.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey is a great alternative and adds a different flavor profile to the bars.

What can I substitute for oats?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using quinoa flakes or crushed nuts in place of oats.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card