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Chewy, Naturally Sweetened Homemade Granola Bars

Two chewy homemade granola bars stacked, featuring oats and melted chocolate chips, resting on a white plate.
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Make easy, chewy homemade granola bars using natural sweeteners. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or make ahead breakfast bars that kids love.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup mixed nuts or seeds (like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds)
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup mix-ins (like mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and mixed nuts or seeds.
  3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter and maple syrup (or honey) until smooth and easily pourable. Do not boil.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the applesauce (or banana), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
  5. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Fold in your chosen mix-ins, such as mini chocolate chips or dried fruit.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan using the back of a spatula or another piece of parchment paper. Pressing firmly is key for chewy granola bars.
  8. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
  9. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block of granola out of the pan. Cut into 12 to 16 bars.
  10. Store the homemade granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

  • For a no-bake option, skip baking and proceed directly to chilling after pressing the mixture firmly into the pan.
  • If you prefer a crispier bar, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, then cool completely before cutting.
  • Customize your bars by using different nut butters or adding flaxseed meal for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/homemade-granola-bars-recipe/