Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously wholesome snack that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! These Fully Loaded Gluten Free Granola Bars are not only packed with nutrients but are also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or a post-workout treat, these bars are a delightful blend of crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruit, and the rich creaminess of almond butter. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering bars that will keep you energized throughout the day. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a snack that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup dried fruit
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, salt, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the warm almond butter and honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all ingredients are completely coated and stick together.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spatula or clean hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, creating a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The cooling process helps the bars set and become firm.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into 10 even bars.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative with the nuts and dried fruits! Try adding chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, make sure to press it down firmly. This helps the bars hold their shape once baked and cooled.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the edges of the bars while baking. They should be golden brown but not too dark; overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for at least an hour. This crucial step ensures they set properly and are easier to slice.
- Storage Secrets: To keep your granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
