Homemade Granola Bars: A Delicious & Nutritious Treat
My dearest readers, I come to you with a most wondrous recipe for homemade granola bars that will surely delight your taste buds and nourish your souls. In this day and age, it is ever important to take care of our bodies with wholesome, nutritious food. That is why I have created this recipe with health and wellness in mind, using only the finest ingredients free from gluten and dairy.
Making these delicious granola bars at home is not only a cost-effective option, but it also allows you to customize them to your liking. With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of chewy granola bars that are perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a quick breakfast option.
But why stop at just being healthy? These granola bars also taste absolutely divine! The combination of crunchy oats, nutty almonds, and naturally sweet honey and brown sugar make for an irresistible treat. Plus, the addition of peanut butter and chocolate chips will satisfy any cravings for something indulgent.
So join me on this culinary journey to create a homemade snack that will not only make your taste buds dance but also contribute to your overall well-being. Let us delve into the recipe, tips and tricks together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear readers, I implore you to take a closer look at this recipe for gluten-free, dairy-free homemade granola bars. Why will you love this recipe, you ask? Allow me to present my case.
Firstly, these granola bars are incredibly easy to make. With only 5 ingredients and minimal prep time, they are a perfect option for those who want a healthy snack on-the-go without spending hours in the kitchen.
Secondly, this recipe is customizable to suit all dietary needs. Certified gluten-free granola and natural peanut butter make these bars ideal for those who are gluten-free, vegan or looking for low-carb and sugar-free options.
Thirdly, these bars are undeniably delicious! Chewy and sweet with the perfect amount of crunch from the almonds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds and quick-cooking oats, these granola bars are tantalizingly addictive. The addition of chocolate chips takes them over the top!
But that’s not all! Not only do these homemade granola bars taste better than store-bought ones but they also pack a punch of nutrition. The pure maple syrup and brown rice syrup act as a natural sweetener which is better than added sugar while also adding an extra dose of vitamin B6 and antioxidants. The coconut oil and natural peanut butter provide healthy fats and protein which help keep one full longer. These granola bars are good for you in more ways than one!
In conclusion, I strongly recommend giving this recipe a try. You’ll find this recipe not only easy but also nutritious and scrumptious. Once you’ve tasted these homemade granola bars made with love in your own kitchen, you won’t ever go back to store-bought again!
Ingredient List
Here are the 4 cups of ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious homemade granola bars:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats (certified gluten-free for gluten-free diets)
- 1 cup gluten-free quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup brown rice cereal (or crispy brown rice cereal)
Nut and Seed Butter:
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter of choice)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
Mix-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds (or any nuts/seeds of choice)
- 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt
Note that if you have dietary restrictions, such as following a low-carb, sugar-free or paleo diet, there are various substitutions available in the Tips section.
The Recipe How-To
Now to the fun part – making these delicious homemade granola bars! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a batch of chewy, tasty bars in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 ⅔ cups gluten-free granola
- 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts work well)
- 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or cherries)
- ½ cup brown rice syrup
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Steps:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, gluten-free granola, chopped nuts, and dried fruit.
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In a medium saucepan, melt together the brown rice syrup, honey, coconut oil, and salt.
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Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to press it down firmly into an even layer.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and set.
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Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
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Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Follow these steps carefully for perfectly chewy granola bars every time!
Substitutions and Variations
My dear readers, one of the best things about this easy homemade granola bar recipe is that it is so versatile! There are countless substitutions and variations that you can make to create a truly personalized snack. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– For those who require a gluten-free diet, be sure to use certified gluten-free quick-cooking oats as well as gluten-free granola in this recipe.
– For those who follow a dairy-free or vegan lifestyle, use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of the butter granola bars. Additionally, opt for vegan chocolate chips or omit them entirely for a completely dairy-free snack.
– Brown rice syrup, honey, and maple syrup are all sweeteners that will work well in this recipe. You could even try agave nectar or stevia for those who prefer low-carb or sugar-free options.
– Feel free to mix up the ingredients by adding dried fruit like cranberries or chopped nuts such as almonds. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds or chia seeds can also be added to increase the nutritional value.
– For peanut butter lovers out there, you can use natural peanut butter (without added sugar) in place of the butter, or opt for peanut butter granola instead of regular granola.
– Looking for a grain-free option? Use brown rice instead of rolled oats to create chewy paleo granola bars.
Whatever your preferences may be, trust me when I say that with just a few swaps and tweaks you can have an entirely new and delicious granola bar creation. So go ahead and get creative with the ingredients – I’m confident that you’ll love whatever variation you choose!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing these delightful homemade granola bars, the world is your oyster! These bars are so versatile that you can enjoy them at any time of the day.
For a quick and satisfying breakfast, try these bars with some delicious vegan yogurt and a handful of fresh berries. Or, you could enjoy them as a midday snack on their own or paired with some juicy seasonal fruit. The bars will keep you feeling full and energized for hours after eating.
For those with a sweet tooth, consider topping the granola bars with melted dark chocolate, adding an extra layer of indulgence. Alternatively, you could spread them with some natural peanut butter or almond butter for a healthy yet indulgent twist.
These granola bars also make a great addition to lunch boxes for kids and adults alike. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect as a snack on-the-go or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
So go ahead and get creative with how you serve and pair these homemade granola bars! They’re sure to add an extra burst of flavor and nutrients to any meal or snack time.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy nutritionist, I always try to make meals in advance and keep them well-stored to save my precious time. Granola bars are no exception to this rule. These granola bars can be made ahead of time and stored for several days without any issue.
After making these chewy granola bars, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to store them for longer, the best way is to wrap each bar in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. These bars will last for up to 3 months when stored properly in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating these homemade granola bars, I recommend leaving them at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. This will give them enough time to defrost and become nice and chewy again. However, if you prefer your bars warm, you can simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven until heated through.
With their hearty ingredients like rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and maple syrup, these gluten-free and dairy-free granola bars are perfect as a grab-n-go snack for busy mornings or packed lunches. Don’t forget to make a big batch so you can enjoy their portable goodness all week long!
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to make the best homemade granola bars possible, there are a few key tips that can help you achieve optimal results. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Don’t overcook the bars
Overcooking the granola bars results in a tough and chewy texture. Ensure that you remove it from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
2. Customize according to allergies
Substitute ingredients in order to accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions of your guests or yourself. Coconut oil, rice syrup, or sunflower seed butter make good substitute options.
3. Keep a close eye on moisture levels
Pay attention to how moist the bars are when mixing and forming them into shape. Avoid adding too much honey/syrup/maple syrup so that the bars won’t become too sticky.
4. Chill properly
It is crucial to allow them to cool down in order for bars to set into their right shape, Make sure it is done.
5. Store correctly
When storing, put them in an airtight container so that they stay fresh and chewy for at least two weeks.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create perfect homemade granola bars every time!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be questions about certain ingredients, substitutions, or storing the finished product. I hope to answer some of the commonly asked questions in this section so that you can make these Easy Homemade Granola Bars with confidence and ease. So let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about the recipe!
What makes granola bars stick together?
In the world of homemade granola bars, there are many options for sticking all the ingredients together. However, our testing has revealed that honey serves as the ultimate binding agent. When incorporated into your recipe, honey acts as a natural glue that keeps all the pieces nicely intact.
Can granola bars be gluten free?
Looking for a gluten-free snack that both kids and adults will love? Try Annie’s Double Chocolate Chip Granola Bars! These bars are packed with a rich chocolate flavor and a satisfying chewy texture, all while being made with whole-grain oats and real chocolate chips. Plus, they offer 11 grams of whole grains per serving.
What is a substitute for brown rice syrup in granola bars?
In case brown rice syrup is not readily available, an alternative can be to use a blend of 1/4 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of coconut or brown sugar, and 1/4 cup pure maple syrup to replace the amount of brown rice syrup, coconut oil, or pure maple syrup mentioned in the recipe.
Are homemade granola bars healthier?
Granola bars made at home can be a healthier option than the ones you find in stores. This is because they usually contain fewer processed components and minimal quantities of added sugar or salt, making them more nutritious.
Bottom Line
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In conclusion, this homemade granola bar recipe offers a healthy snack alternative that is gluten-free, dairy-free, and customizable to suit your tastes. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy them anytime as a quick snack or an energy-packed breakfast on-the-go.
This recipe stands out because of its delicious chewy texture and the perfect balance of flavors from the combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and natural sweeteners. You’ll find it hard to resist eating just one!
What’s more, with the substitutions and variations explained in this recipe article, you can create your unique bars that cater to your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you want a low-carb or sugar-free option, or you prefer peanut butter or chocolate chips as a flavor booster, this recipe has got you covered.
Lastly, you won’t have to worry about storing them as these homemade granola bars are freezer-friendly and can last for up to two weeks in an airtight container. So go ahead and make a big batch!
Try this easy homemade granola bar recipe today, knowing that you’re making something that’s delicious and packed with healthy ingredients. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how fantastic they taste. Your taste buds -and body- will thank you!
Easy Homemade Granola Bars - Gluten Free Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 2 1/3 cups quick-cooking oats
Instructions
- Grease and 8×8 pan. In a pan combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, and corn syrup. Stir constantly over medium heat until butter melts, sugar dissolves, and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and add oats. Stir well until oats are well coated. Spread mixture into 8×8 or similar pan. Bake at 350 for 22 minutes. Cool 5 minutes and cut into bars. Cool for about 1 hour more in the pan and then remove bars from the pan.
- If you wait to cut and remove the bars from the pan until the pan is completely cooled, the bars will be very hard to remove.