Homemade granola bars

Introduction: Homemade granola bars are a wholesome and customizable snack, perfect for on-the-go or as a nutritious treat. These bars are packed with oats, peanut butter, honey, and your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Making them at home ensures you get a healthy, preservative-free snack that you can tailor to your taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1/2 cup honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mix-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, coconut flakes)

Instructions:

1. Toast the Oats (Optional): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the oats on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
3. Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, salt, cinnamon, and your choice of mix-ins. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
4. Form the Bars: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, pressing it down firmly to ensure the bars hold together well. You can use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to help pack the mixture tightly.
5. Chill and Cut: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set. Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares or rectangles.
6. Store: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. You can also freeze them for up to two months.

Conclusion: Homemade granola bars are an easy and healthy alternative to store-bought versions. They’re versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or an energy boost before a workout, these granola bars are sure to become a household favorite.