Whole Food Granola Bars
Try this Whole Food Granola Bars recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Whole Food Granola Bars recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 0.0664125 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.000315 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0.000315 g
- Saturated Fat 5.25E-05 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (1g)
- Sodium 0.04725 mg
- Sugar 0.0664125 g
- Trans Fat 0.000189 g
- Calories 2 calories
Step-by-step
- Add nuts, oatmeal, & chocolate chips to a food processor & pulse until nuts & chocolate chips are coarsely chopped.
- Dump mixture into a large bowl & add shredded coconut.
- In a medium sized microwave safe bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut oil & honey.
- Microwave on low in 30 second increments until mixture is fully melted.
- Add vanilla & sea salt; mix thoroughly.
- Add wet mixture to dry mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Line a 9x13 baking pan with a SilPat or Wax paper and press into a flat & even layer.
- Chill until stiff & serve.
- Keep refrigerated.
My Go-To Healthy Granola Bars: A Busy Mom's Recipe
As a busy mom of three, finding time to prepare healthy and delicious snacks for my kids (and myself!) is always a challenge. Convenience often wins out, leading to sugary cereals and processed snacks that I know aren't the best for their growing bodies. That's why I've been on a mission to find simple, wholesome recipes that I can make ahead of time and keep on hand. These Whole Food Granola Bars have become my absolute lifesaver.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated ingredients, no fancy techniques – just wholesome goodness packed into a convenient bar. My kids love them, and I feel good about giving them a snack that's loaded with nuts, seeds, and oats – providing sustained energy without the sugar crash. The best part? I can often adapt the recipe based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I’ll add dried cranberries or chopped apricots for extra sweetness and a boost of vitamins. Other times, I'll swap out the sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds depending on what's on sale at the farmer's market.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, most of the time is hands-off, while the mixture chills.
- Healthy and Wholesome: This recipe focuses on whole foods, offering a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a nutritious alternative to store-bought granola bars, which are often loaded with added sugar and artificial ingredients.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These granola bars keep well in the refrigerator for a week, making them the perfect grab-and-go snack for busy mornings or afternoons.
Tips and Tricks:
- Nut Variety: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of nuts. Almonds, pistachios, macadamia nuts – the possibilities are endless!
- Sweetener Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of honey. You can even add a touch of maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They also freeze well.
- Gift Giving: These granola bars make wonderful homemade gifts, especially during the holiday season. Simply wrap them individually in parchment paper or cellophane and tie with a ribbon.
Making these granola bars has become a fun family activity. My kids love helping me measure the ingredients and press the mixture into the pan. It's a great way to teach them about healthy eating and the importance of making food from scratch. Beyond the convenience and health benefits, this simple recipe has brought a touch of joy and connection into our busy lives. And isn't that what matters most?
So, if you're looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make snack that the whole family will love, give this Whole Food Granola Bars recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
