Homemade Granola Bars: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

A step-by-step guide to making homemade granola bars that are nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for on-the-go snacking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable – Adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences.
• Healthy – Made with wholesome, natural ingredients.
• No Preservatives – Freshly made with no artificial additives.
• Easy to Make – Simple instructions with minimal steps.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and store for later.

Ingredients Notes

• Oats – Rolled oats provide a chewy texture and fiber.
• Honey or Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener.
• Nut Butter – Helps bind the bars and adds richness.
• Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for crunch.
• Dried Fruits – Adds natural sweetness and chewiness.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Optional but adds a delicious treat.

How to Make Homemade Granola Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Chop the nuts and dried fruits into small pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
2. Stir to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Make the Binding Mixture

1. In a saucepan, warm honey (or maple syrup) with nut butter over low heat.
2. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.
3. Pour over dry ingredients and mix well.

Step 4: Shape and Set

1. Transfer the mixture into the lined baking dish.
2. Press down firmly to ensure compact bars.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 5: Cut and Store

1. Remove from the fridge and cut into bars.
2. Store in an airtight container for freshness.

Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerator: Stays fresh for 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Store for up to 3 months; wrap bars individually for convenience.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free Option – Replace nut butter with sunflower seed butter.
• Different Sweeteners – Use agave syrup instead of honey.
• Extra Crunch – Add toasted coconut or granola clusters.

Pairings and Accompaniments

• With Yogurt – A perfect breakfast combination.
• With Fresh Fruits – Pair with berries for added flavor.
• With a Smoothie – A great on-the-go snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do homemade granola bars stay good for?

Homemade granola bars last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and 3 months in the freezer.

Are homemade granola bars healthier?

Yes! They contain no preservatives, refined sugars, or artificial additives.

What helps homemade granola bars stick together?

Using a binding ingredient like honey, maple syrup, or nut butter keeps them firm.

Best Time to Enjoy These Granola Bars

• Breakfast – A quick and nutritious start to the day.
• Post-Workout – A great energy-boosting snack.
• Afternoon Pick-Me-Up – Keeps hunger at bay until dinner.

Presentation Tips

• Cut into Uniform Sizes – Makes them look more appealing.
• Drizzle with Chocolate – For an indulgent touch.
• Wrap Individually – Great for on-the-go snacking.

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Suggested Recipes

• Healthy Oatmeal Muffins
• No-Bake Energy Bites
• Peanut Butter Protein Balls

For more savory recipes, you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.