Deliciously Healthy Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Welcome, foodie! Today’s recipe is one for the books – it’s a Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars recipe that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. As a nutritionist and food blogger, I know firsthand how important it is to have healthy snack options on hand, and these bars tick all the boxes.
Not only are they gluten-free and dairy-free, but they’re also packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, raw almonds, sunflower seeds and ground flaxseed. The peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, while the honey and maple syrup add a touch of natural sweetness. And let’s not forget the chocolate chips and seedless raisins that give these bars an extra burst of flavor.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easy to make – you don’t even have to turn on your oven! It’s a no-bake granola bar that requires just one bowl and a few simple steps. Plus, it’s customizable so you can substitute or add ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a snack to take on-the-go, these chewy peanut butter granola bars are perfect. They make for a great snack at work, after school or even during a hike. So let’s get started with this convenient and delicious recipe – I promise it won’t disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen closely, my dear readers. You’re in for a treat with this gluten-free peanut butter granola bar recipe. Trust me, I’m a nutritionist cum food blogger for a reason. This recipe is a game-changer and will have you questioning why you ever ate store-bought granola bars in the first place.
Firstly, have you ever tasted that perfect balance between sweet and savory? It’s like biting into a hearty oatmeal cookie with just the right amount of natural sweetness from seedless raisins and honey. These homemade peanut butter granola bars have that irresistible flavor that will make your taste buds sing with joy.
But what sets these chewy, chocolatey granola bars apart from the rest is the texture – made with whole grains and no processed sugars, these bars keep you fuelled and satisfied throughout the day. Plus, made with healthy ingredients such as raw almonds, sunflower seeds, and ground flaxseed, you’re getting all the benefits without sacrificing on taste.
Maybe you’re always on the go or just want to indulge in a healthy snack between meals – whatever your reason is, these homemade bars are an easy and tasty option. Plus, they’re vegan-friendly and gluten-free! So whether you have specific dietary needs or simply want to choose healthier snack options, this recipe has got you covered.
So what are you waiting for? Whip up these easy homemade peanut butter granola bars and taste the difference for yourself. Trust me; your body will thank you for it.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these gluten-free peanut butter granola bars:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free, if needed)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey (use maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup seedless raisins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (use vegan chocolate chips for vegan option)
Optional add-ins:
– 1/2 cup raw almonds
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
Note: For homemade peanut butter, pulse 2 cups of roasted peanuts in a food processor until they form a creamy texture.
The Recipe How-To
To make these delicious gluten-free peanut butter granola bars, I recommend starting by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, toss together 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/2 cup of raw almonds, and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds. Mix these dry ingredients well with a wooden spoon.
In another small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Ensure that all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Combining the Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly drizzle the wet mixture over the dry mixture, using the spoon to continuously mix them together properly as you pour. You should continue stirring until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated.
Once you have a consistent texture, fold in 3/4 cups of seedless raisins or chocolate chips. You can choose either ingredient, put if you select to add chocolate chips to your recipe it will give it a deliciously sweet taste.
Baking The Bars
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with more coconut oil or cooking spray. Pour the granola bar mixture into the baking dish and use a spatula to smooth out its top.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until it turns golden brown on top with a slightly chewy texture in the center. You may want to rotate the dish halfway through so that everything cooks uniformly.
Cooling and Cutting The Bars
Let it cool fully before cutting the granola bar into evenly sized pieces. This process takes about an hour at room temperature or half an hour in your refrigerator. To ensure even neatness, I recommend using a sharp chef’s knife.
These bars can be easily stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making it an easy go-to snack. The combination of oats, nuts and peanut butter makes this healthy and chewy bar both nutritious and filling. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
As a nutritionist, I understand how important it is to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. Luckily, this recipe is quite adaptable to substitutions and variations. Here are some ideas:
– Peanut butter: If you have an allergy to peanuts or simply don’t like the taste of peanut butter, you can substitute it with any other nut or seed butter, such as almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.
– Sweeteners: While honey and dark brown sugar add a nice depth of flavor to these granola bars, you can use any other liquid sweetener of your choice, such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or rice syrup. For a lower-sugar option, try using stevia drops or monk fruit extract.
– Add-ins: The beauty of granola bars is that you can customize them to your liking! Instead of chocolate chips and seedless raisins, try adding dried cranberries, chopped dates, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts like almonds, pecans or hazelnuts.
– Gluten-free oats: Although most oats are technically gluten-free, they can sometimes be contaminated during processing. If you have celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, look for certified gluten-free oats. You can also make this recipe with quinoa flakes, buckwheat groats, or amaranth flakes.
– Vegan options: To make these granola bars vegan-friendly, use vegan chocolate chips and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. You could also experiment with using ground flaxseed instead of eggs to bind the ingredients together.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose to make, remember that the key to success in this recipe is finding the right balance between wet and dry ingredients. As long as you keep that in mind and follow the general proportions in the recipe instructions (which are pretty forgiving), the end result should be deliciously chewy and satisfying snack bars that everyone can enjoy.
Serving and Pairing
Serving these tempting gluten-free peanut butter granola bars is an experience in and of itself! Their chewy texture conjures up memories of the Nature Valley granola bars we used to have as kids. But these are so much healthier and tastier!
Enjoy them as a mid-day snack with a hot cup of coffee, or pack them in your kid’s lunch box for a portable treat. They are not only satisfying, but also provide a nice energy boost.
If you’re feeling decadent, pair them with a tall glass of cold almond milk to create a dreamy chocolate peanut butter flavor bomb! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
You can also crumble these granola bars over yogurt bowls for a little extra crunch and sweetness. Or chop them up and sprinkle them over some banana ice cream or smoothie bowls for a refreshing summer treat.
These homemade peanut butter granola bars will become your new best friend when it comes to healthy snack options. Enjoy them anytime, anywhere, and feel good about what you’re putting in your body!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As someone who loves to meal prep, I understand the need for make-ahead and easy storing options. These gluten-free peanut butter granola bars can be made ahead of time and stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. If you wish to store them in the fridge or freezer, make sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve their flavor and texture.
To reheat these bars, simply take them out of the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. You may also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you prefer them warm. These bars are great for those mornings when you’re in a hurry and need a healthy breakfast on-the-go, or as a mid-day snack to keep you full and energized.
One tip for make-ahead is to mix all ingredients except chocolate chips and raisins, then after baking and cooling add in the chocolate chips and raisins. This will ensure that they remain fresh longer without any sogginess caused by the moisture in the raisins.
In summary, these healthy peanut butter granola bars are perfect for meal prepping and make-ahead snacking. With easy storing options and simple reheating techniques, you’ll have a tasty treat ready to grab whenever hunger strikes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect chewy texture of these Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars can be tricky sometimes, but with these helpful tips, you’re sure to make a batch that’s both delicious and satisfying.
First and foremost, make sure you’re using the correct ingredients. Use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats for a heartier texture. If gluten-free is needed, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
For the homemade peanut butter component of the recipe, it’s recommended to use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky as it tends to provide a smoother texture. Additionally, using high-quality peanuts and roasting them at home can really bring out their natural flavors.
Properly measuring all ingredients is crucial to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures. Use a measuring cup or scale for precise measurements according to the recipe instructions.
When baking the granola bars, make sure not to overcook them as it might result in a dry, crumbly batch. The bars should have a golden brown color and a uniform texture throughout.
Allowing the bars to cool down completely before slicing them will help them retain their shape and ensure less crumbling when cut. Using a sharp serrated knife also helps with cutting evenly sized bars.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to get creative with your flavor combinations and add-ins! Try adding in chopped nuts, dried fruits or even drizzling melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. The possibilities are endless with these versatile granola bars!
By following these tips, you’re sure to achieve perfect results every time with this healthy and satisfying snack.
FAQ
As much as we love this Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars recipe, we understand that any cooking endeavor can come with questions or doubts. That’s why we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate this recipe and ensure that you achieve the best results possible.
What makes granola bars stick together?
When it comes to creating homemade granola bars, there are many ingredients that can create a sticky texture. However, through ample trial and error, we’ve discovered that using honey as a binding agent truly elevates the overall quality of the bars. It effectively glues all the pieces together, resulting in a delicious and cohesive final product.
Is Nature Valley peanut butter granola gluten free?
This pack of granola bars is a guilt-free snack that combines the goodness of protein, peanut butter, and dark chocolate in every chewy bite. With each pack containing 5 bars, each weighing 1.42 ounces, and a total weight of 7.1 ounces (4 packs in total), it’s perfect for grabbing on-the-go or as a midday snack at work or school. And the best part? It’s gluten-free, so you can enjoy this yummy treat without worrying about any adverse reactions.
Are there any granola bars that are gluten free?
Introducing a scrumptious gluten-free granola bar that is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults – the Annie’s Gluten Free Double Chocolate Chip Granola Bar. Indulge in the delightful blend of chocolaty goodness and a chewy texture that’s packed with 11 grams of whole grains per serving. Made with whole-grain oats and real chocolate chips, these snack bars are a must-try.
Why is granola not gluten free?
While oats are inherently gluten-free, it’s important to note that certain granola brands may have trace amounts of gluten due to shared equipment during processing.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars recipe is the perfect healthy snack option for those who want to maintain a gluten-free, dairy-free and organic diet. These delicious bars are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients that you can find in your pantry. They are also versatile, and you can create endless variations depending on what ingredients you have available. This recipe offers the perfect blend of chewy texture and crunchy peanuts that will drive your taste buds crazy.
Remember, healthy eating does not have to be boring or bland. This recipe proves that you can indulge in tasty treats without compromising your health goals. So, whether you are looking for a quick on-the-go breakfast, midday snack or post-workout fuel, these bars will hit the spot.
So why not give this Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars recipe a try? It is an excellent way to ensure that you eat whole grains and pack in protein without having to succumb to the unhealthy packaged snacks available at stores. I assure you that this will become a household favorite among those with an appreciation for tasty and healthy treat options.
Gluten Free Peanut Butter Granola Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup kraft light peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal
- 1 cup organic corn flakes
- 1 cup seedless raisin
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanuts
Instructions
- Line an 8 by 10 pan with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- To make the “granola glue” or peanut butter sauce, combine honey and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Heat, while stirring, until the brown sugar dissolves. Bring mixture to a simmer and simmer for 1-2 minutes until evenly foamy/bubbly on top. Remove from the heat. Add one teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir (it will steam a bit). Add peanut butter and stir briskly until lumps are gone and the consistency is uniform.
- Pour granola glue in bowl with dry ingredients and mix.
- Place the mixture in pan and press down with a fork to smooth out.
- Place in fridge for at least an hour (I leave it in overnight).