Nutty Fruit Granola Bars
These Nutty Fruit Granola Bars are the ultimate convenient and healthy breakfast choice that combines wholesome ingredients for a deliciously satisfying snack. This recipe features a delightful blend of rolled oats, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruits. Unlike store-bought versions filled with preservatives, these homemade bars are easy to prepare in just one saucepan. The optional butter makes them delectably rich, while honey and brown sugar provide natural sweetness. Perfect for busy mornings or a mid-day pick-me-up, these bars can be wrapped and stored for a couple of weeks, ensuring that you have a nutritious treat always on hand.
9
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Rolled oats
2 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds)
1 cup (chopped)
Chopped dried fruit (dried apricots, dried cherries)
1 cup (chopped)
Honey
1/2 cup (liquid)
Brown sugar
3 tablespoons (packed)
Butter
2 tablespoons (optional, melted)
Vanilla extract
2 teaspoons (liquid)
Ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons (ground)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch glass baking pan to prevent sticking.
2
Spread the rolled oats and chopped nuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and fragrant.
3
While the oats and nuts are toasting, combine honey, brown sugar, optional melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to bubble, then boil for an additional 2 minutes while stirring.
4
Once the oats and nuts are finished toasting, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Remove the saucepan from heat.
5
Carefully add the toasted oats and nuts into the saucepan, stirring gently to coat them evenly with the honey mixture.
6
Fold in the chopped dried fruits until everything is well combined.
7
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking pan. Using the back of a spoon, firmly press the mixture into the pan to create an even layer.
8
Bake in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes, then remove and let cool completely before slicing into bars.
9
For optimal freshness, wrap the granola bars in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They will keep well for at least a couple of weeks!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutty Fruit Granola Bars?
Nutty Fruit Granola Bars are a healthy and convenient breakfast or snack made from rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits, sweetened with honey and brown sugar.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 9 servings.
What type of oats should I use?
You should use 2 1/2 cups of uncooked rolled oats for this recipe.
Which nuts are best for these bars?
The recipe suggests a mix of walnuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds, but you can use any variety you prefer.
What dried fruits are recommended?
Dried apricots and dried cherries are recommended for a chewy, sweet texture.
Is the butter mandatory in this recipe?
No, the 2 tablespoons of butter are optional but make the bars taste richer.
How do I prepare the pan?
You should grease an 8x8-inch glass baking pan to prevent the granola bars from sticking.
What is the first step in making these bars?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan.
How long do I toast the oats and nuts?
Toast the oats and chopped nuts at 350°F for about 12 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden.
What temperature should the oven be for baking the bars?
After toasting the ingredients, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the final bake.
How do I prepare the honey mixture?
Combine honey, brown sugar, optional butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat until it bubbles.
How long should I boil the honey mixture?
Once the mixture begins to bubble, boil it for an additional 2 minutes while stirring continuously.
When do I add the dried fruit?
Fold in the chopped dried fruits after the toasted oats and nuts have been coated in the honey mixture.
How do I ensure the bars hold together?
Firmly press the mixture into the baking pan using the back of a spoon to create an even, compact layer.
How long do the granola bars bake?
Bake the bars at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes.
Should I slice the bars immediately after baking?
No, let the bars cool completely before slicing them to ensure they maintain their shape.
How should I store the finished granola bars?
Store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
How long do these homemade granola bars stay fresh?
They will stay fresh and delicious for at least a couple of weeks if stored properly.
Are these granola bars gluten-free?
They can be gluten-free if you ensure that the rolled oats you use are certified gluten-free.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make these bars vegan?
To make them vegan, omit the butter and replace the honey with a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave.
What size baking pan is needed?
An 8x8-inch glass baking pan is required for this recipe.
Can I use different spices?
While this recipe uses cinnamon, you could experiment with nutmeg or ginger for different flavor profiles.
Are these bars better than store-bought?
Yes, they are free from the preservatives often found in commercial versions and allow for complete control over ingredients.
Do I need to stir the honey mixture while it boils?
Yes, you should stir it continuously to prevent burning.
What if I don't have vanilla extract?
You can omit it, though it adds a significant depth of flavor to the bars.
Can I add seeds to this recipe?
Yes, sunflower seeds are already suggested, and you could also add pumpkin seeds or chia seeds.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one bar when the 8x8 pan is sliced into 9 equal portions.
Can I use quick-cooking oats instead?
Rolled oats provide a better texture, but quick-cooking oats can be used if necessary, though the bars may be softer.
Is this a good recipe for kids?
Absolutely! They are a nutritious and delicious snack that kids usually love.