Soft and Chewy Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

peanut butter

🥗Healthier: almond butter

💰Cheaper: sunflower seed butter

Almond butter is lower in saturated fat and offers a different flavor.

chocolate chips

🥗Healthier: dark chocolate chips

💰Cheaper: cocoa powder

Dark chocolate chips provide antioxidants and less sugar.

honey

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with a unique flavor.

rolled oats

🥗Healthier: gluten-free oats

💰Cheaper: quick oats

Quick oats are often less expensive and still work well.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Roughly chop 1/2 cup of whole raw almonds.

Add 2 1/2 cups of rolled oats and chopped almonds to a baking sheet.

Toast in the oven for 5 minutes, stir, then toast for another 5 to 10 minutes until lightly toasted.

In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat.

Add 1/3 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the melted butter.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sugar has completely dissolved.

In a large bowl, combine the toasted oats and nuts with the butter and honey mixture, tossing until all the oats are coated.

Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the mixture and stir to combine.

Line a baking pan with foil or parchment paper.

Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking pan using a spoon and then clean, wet fingers to compact it into the corners.

Press a couple more tablespoons of chocolate chips on top of the mixture.

Refrigerate for 2 hours until hardened or freeze for about 30 minutes if in a hurry.

Cut the bars into logs or squares, about 12 bars total.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary