Homemade Granola Bars – A Wholesome and Energizing Snack

Homemade Granola Bars – A Wholesome and Energizing Snack
These Homemade Granola Bars are a fantastic way to fuel your day with nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. The addition of honey and banana not only provides natural sweetness but also helps bind the ingredients together to form a chewy, satisfying bar. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or an on-the-go energy booster, these granola bars offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and energized.

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minute
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12-16 bars
Ingredients
300g (3 cups) oat flakes (long cooking)
130g (1/3 cup) honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 banana (approx. 120g)
150g dates (can be replaced with a second banana)
50g dried apricots
30g blueberries
50g cranberries
30g pumpkin seeds
50g almonds
100g walnuts
20g macadamia nuts
Baking Instructions
Bake at 150°C (302°F) for 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Nuts and Fruit
Chop the Nuts: Chop the almonds, walnuts, and macadamia nuts into large pieces. Set them aside in a large bowl.
Chop the Dried Fruits: Cut the dates, dried apricots, cranberries, and blueberries into small cubes. Add them to the same bowl with the nuts.
Step 2: Prepare the Banana Base
Mash the Banana: In a separate small bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
Mix with Honey and Vanilla: Add the honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed banana and mix well. This mixture will serve as the binding agent for the granola bars.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Add the Oats and Seeds: Pour the rolled oats and pumpkin seeds into the bowl with the chopped nuts and dried fruit. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Combine with the Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour the banana-honey mixture over the oats, nuts, and dried fruits. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Press into the Baking Pan
Line a baking pan (18 cm x 26 cm) with parchment paper.
Pour the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to ensure it’s compacted and even.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F) and bake the mixture for 30 minutes, or until the bars are golden and firm.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
Serving Suggestions
Quick Breakfast: Serve the granola bars as a quick breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
Healthy Snack: Pack them as a healthy snack for a road trip or picnic.
Energy Boost: Enjoy them as an energy boost before or after a workout.
With Yogurt: Pair them with yogurt and fresh fruits for a complete snack.
Smoothie Topping: Use the granola bars as a topping for smoothie bowls for added crunch and nutrition.
Cooking Tips
Binding: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mashed banana or honey to help it come together.
Customize the Nuts: Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorites, such as cashews or pecans.
Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a little extra honey or a handful of chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
Storage: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Nutritional Benefits
Oats: Rich in fiber, oats help regulate blood sugar levels and provide long-lasting energy.
Nuts and Seeds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, the nuts and seeds provide a great source of nourishment and help keep you feeling full.
Dried Fruits: Dried fruits, such as dates and apricots, are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support overall health.
Honey and Banana: Both honey and banana provide natural sweetness along with potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store the granola bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
Freezing: To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in parchment paper and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, these granola bars provide a nutritious snack or breakfast that will keep you energized.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences to create your ideal granola bar.
Natural Sweetness: The combination of honey and banana gives these bars a natural, wholesome sweetness without the need for refined sugars.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple, requires minimal prep time, and can be made in just 45 minutes.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of fruit instead of banana?
Yes, you can replace the banana with applesauce or yogurt for a different texture and flavor.

2. Can I make these granola bars vegan?
Yes, to make them vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use dairy-free yogurt if needed.

3. How do I prevent the granola bars from falling apart?
Be sure to compact the mixture well before baking and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them hold together better.

4. Can I add chocolate to these granola bars?
Absolutely! You can stir in chocolate chips or melt dark chocolate to drizzle on top for a delicious twist.

5. How long will these granola bars last?
Stored in an airtight container, the granola bars will last for about 1 week at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them or freeze for up to 3 months.

These Homemade Granola Bars are the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an on-the-go snack, or an energy-boosting treat, these bars will become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!