Are you tired of bland, expensive granola bars that leave you unsatisfied? Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these irresistible Quaker-style chewy granola bars that are not just a treat, but a game-changer in homemade snacking! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, these bars are about to become your new go-to recipe for a quick energy boost, lunch box staple, or guilt-free indulgence that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and almond butter together for 30-45 seconds until smooth and easily blendable. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the warm honey-almond butter mixture over the dry oat mixture. Stir until all ingredients are completely combined and moistened.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and dried fruit, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and create an even, compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire batch out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Press Firmly: The key to bars that hold together is pressing the mixture REALLY firmly into the pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands (with a bit of cooking spray) to create a compact layer.
- Cool Completely: Patience is crucial! Let the bars cool entirely before cutting to ensure they set properly and don't crumble.
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: While this recipe calls for chocolate chips and dried fruit, feel free to experiment with nuts, seeds, or different dried fruits to make the recipe your own.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container with a piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature, making them perfect for meal prep and busy weeks!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
