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 

  1. 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.)
  1. 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.
  1. Place oats, sunflower seeds, almonds, coconut flakes, chia seeds, cranberries and dates in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
  1. Mix peanut butter and honey in a small cast iron skillet over low heat and warm mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  1. Stir oats mixture together until evenly blended.
  1. Pour heated peanut butter and honey mixture over oats mixture and blend together with wooden spoon.
  1. Take cast iron skillet or baking sheet and line with aluminum foil. Transfer the mixture to this pan.
  1. 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.
  1. Place pan in a fridge or cooler and let sit until mixture is firm.
  1. 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!