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Easy Chewy Homemade Granola Bars Recipe for a Healthy Snack

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These easy chewy homemade granola bars are a wholesome, delicious snack with a perfect balance of chewy and sturdy texture, made from simple pantry ingredients like oats, honey, and nut butter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ½ cup (120ml) honey
  • ⅓ cup (80g) natural creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup (60g) chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • ¼ cup (45g) mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (60g) dried fruit (optional, like cranberries or raisins)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Toast the oats and nuts by spreading them on a baking sheet and baking for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine honey, peanut butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stove for 20-30 seconds until smooth.
  4. Pour the toasted oats and nuts into the wet mixture. Add optional mini chocolate chips and dried fruit if using. Stir well until everything is coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly sprayed hands.
  6. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to set the bars.
  7. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into 10-12 squares with a sharp knife. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Toast oats and nuts separately to enhance flavor. Warm honey and nut butter gently to avoid separation. Press mixture firmly into pan for chewy bars. Chill bars overnight before cutting to prevent crumbling. Use parchment paper for easy removal. Variations include vegan swaps, nut-free options, and adding protein powder.

Nutrition

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