Fireside Feasts: Happy Trails Granola Bars
Looking for a sweet, hearty snack to take with you on the go? Try our granola bar recipe that’s great for any occasion.Whether you’re a runner on the move, a hungry athlete or someone looking for a delicious, guilt-free snack, these bars are a must-try. Plus, they’re easy to make! Let’s get to it. Here’s what you need to know:
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 5 mins
Total time: 15 mins
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup roasted unsalted almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 cup coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup dates, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey, maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/3 cup creamy salted natural peanut butter or almond butter
- Optional additions: Mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, banana chips, vanilla, cinnamon, etc.
COOKING TOOLS
- Cast iron skillets or 8″x8″ baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Stainless steel bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Aluminum foil, parchment paper or plastic wrap
- Cooler/Refrigeration
INSTRUCTIONS
- If not already packed, process dates in a food processor (about 1 minute) or chop by hand until small bits remain. It should form a dough-like consistency. (Sprinkle in some water to help keep moist.)
- Optional step: Toast your oats (and almonds, if raw) in cast iron skillet, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes. You can also bake the oats in the oven at 350° F (176° C) for 10 minutes, or until slightly golden brown. Otherwise, leave them raw.
- Place oats, sunflower seeds, almonds, coconut flakes, chia seeds, cranberries and dates in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Mix peanut butter and honey in a small cast iron skillet over low heat and warm mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Stir oats mixture together until evenly blended.
- Pour heated peanut butter and honey mixture over oats mixture and blend together with wooden spoon.
- Take cast iron skillet or baking sheet and line with aluminum foil. Transfer the mixture to this pan.
- Take another sheet of foil and place on top of mixture. Use both hands with the foil and press firmly down on the mixture, spreading evenly.
- Place pan in a fridge or cooler and let sit until mixture is firm.
- Remove mixture from pan and slice into individual bars, cutting each based on size preference.
PRO TIPS
- If your dates aren’t sticky and moist, soak them in water for roughly 10 minutes and drain before processing. This will help them blend better and help keep the bars cohesive.
- If the mixture is drier than desired, add a small amount of peanut butter and/or honey. If the mixture is too moist, add more oats.
A simple recipe with wholesome ingredients and plenty of flavor, these granola bars can be a tasty addition to your snacking habits. If you want to give your bars a personal twist, consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruits or other nut varieties. Enjoy!