Ingredients
- 1/4 cup peanuts
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup cashews
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups oats
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup dried berries
- Chopped nuts
- Seeds
- Dark chocolate chips
Directions
Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
Roast nuts for 5 minutes on medium-low heat, then cool slightly.
Blend the roasted nuts into a smooth butter.
In a bowl, mix the nut butter, honey, vanilla/spices, oats, and raisins.
Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8x8 inch pan.
Top with nuts, seeds, or chocolate, and gently press them into the mixture.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I properly store these homemade healthy granola bars to keep them fresh?
Store your finished granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
Can I substitute the honey and maple syrup in this recipe with a different natural sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute the liquids, but ratios may vary. If using dates or another thick paste, you might need to slightly adjust the blend time when making the nut butter base. Keep in mind that changing the sweeteners might slightly affect the final binding texture.
Why did my granola bars crumble when I tried to cut them after baking?
Crumbling often occurs if the nut butter binding agent wasn't fully pressed into the pan or if the bars weren't cooled completely before slicing. Ensure you press the mixture firmly after roasting and cooling the nuts, then let them chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting.
