You know that feeling when you're staring into the pantry, desperately searching for a snack that won't derail your day? Yeah, I've been there too. So, I decided it's time to dive into the world of homemade granola bars! Seriously, who wouldn't want to whip up those crispy, chewy bites of goodness that make you feel like you’re truly treating yourself, without all those mysterious ingredients? Last week, I tried one from the store and it was way too sweet – I mean, who needs that much sugar in a snack? I’m excited to mix my favorite nuts, seeds, and maybe a hint of chocolate – because come on, chocolate makes everything better, right? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get this healthy, delicious journey started!
Items You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula
- Baking Dish or Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
- Cooling Rack
- Knife or Pizza Cutter
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
I start by gathering all my equipment: a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, a baking dish lined with parchment paper, an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C), a cooling rack, and a trusty knife for slicing my granola bars later.
Step 2: Measure and Mix the Dry Ingredients
I grab my mixing bowl and measure out 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of nuts (like almonds or walnuts), and 1/2 cup of my favorite seeds (pumpkin or sunflower seeds are perfect). Into the bowl they go, followed by 1/2 cup of dried fruits (cranberries or raisins), 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt for a flavor boost. I give it a good stir with the spatula until everything is nicely combined!
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan, I melt 1/4 cup of coconut oil and mix in 1/4 cup of nut butter (peanut or almond butter). Once melted and mixed, I pour this delicious goo over the dry ingredients. Ooey-gooey goodness!
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Using my spatula, I mix everything together until every oat and nut is coated in that sweet, sticky mixture. It’s starting to smell heavenly!
Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Now it's time to transfer the mixture into my prepared baking dish. I press it down firmly, making sure it’s an even layer. I use the spatula to help shape it nicely, ensuring there are no loose edges!
Step 6: Bake the Mixture
I pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and set a timer for 20 minutes. I love watching it turn a golden brown through the oven door, knowing that soon I will have delicious granola bars!
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once the timer goes off, I let it cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes and then carefully transfer it to a cooling rack. After it cools completely, I take my trusty knife (or pizza cutter!) and slice it into perfect rectangles. It's the moment I’ve been waiting for - homemade granola bars!
Step 8: Enjoy My Creation!
Finally, I pack them up for snacks or enjoy one right away. Each bite is crunchy, chewy, and packed with flavor. Making homemade granola bars was a fun adventure, and I can't wait to share them!