Are you looking for a wholesome and delicious snack for on-the-go moments? Look no further than these Chewy Granola Bars! Packed with oats, nuts, and a touch of sweetness, these bars are perfect for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or school lunches. Plus, they’re a fantastic alternative to store-bought granola bars, giving you full control over the ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to creating homemade snacks, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit your taste preferences.
**Chewy Granola Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups old-fashioned oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra flavor
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and chopped nuts. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the oats and nuts.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has completely dissolved. Allow it to simmer for a minute or two.
4. Remove the toasted oats and nuts from the oven and transfer them back to the mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey mixture over the oats and nuts. Add the dried fruit and any additional ingredients like chocolate chips or shredded coconut. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or a spatula to create an even layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The bars will still seem soft but will firm up as they cool.
7. Allow the Chewy Granola Bars to cool completely in the baking dish before using the parchment paper overhang to lift them out. Place the bars on a cutting board and cut them into individual bars or squares using a sharp knife.
8. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
These Chewy Granola Bars are a fantastic way to elevate your snacking game with a homemade touch. Experiment with different ingredients like dried cherries, pumpkin seeds, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate on top. Make a batch on the weekend and have a satisfying snack ready whenever hunger strikes. Enjoy the chewy texture, nutty crunch, and natural sweetness of these bars – they’re sure to become a household favorite!
