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Homemade granola bars

Imagine making your own granola bars with fresh ingredients from your kitchen. This recipe lets you pick what goes into your snacks. Say goodbye to preservatives and additives found in store-bought bars.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • ½ cup chopped nuts almonds, walnuts, or pecans
  • ½ cup dried fruit raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots
  • ¼ cup chocolate chips optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pan
  2. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  3. Warm the Wet Ingredients
  4. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter and honey together, stirring until smooth.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
  6. Mix the Dry Ingredients
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and dried fruit.
  8. Combine Everything
  9. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well coated.
  10. If using chocolate chips, let the mixture cool slightly before adding them to prevent melting.
  11. Press and Chill
  12. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly with a spatula or your hands.
  13. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.