Strawberry Granola Bars

Strawberry Granola Bars

In the quest for a snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious, Strawberry Granola Bars emerge as a standout choice.

These homemade bars combine the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the hearty crunch of granola, creating a delicious and wholesome treat that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking, a quick breakfast, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Not only are they a delight to eat, but they also offer a host of health benefits, making them a great addition to any diet.

Strawberries are a nutrient-dense fruit, packed with vitamins C and A, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to overall health by boosting the immune system, supporting skin health, and aiding in digestion.

Granola, typically made from oats, nuts, and seeds, provides a crunchy texture and is a good source of fiber, protein, and essential minerals. Combining these ingredients into a homemade granola bar allows you to enjoy the benefits of both strawberries and granola in a convenient, portable form.

Making Strawberry Granola Bars at home is both fun and rewarding. The process is straightforward, and you can customize the bars to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the ingredients or adding your favorite mix-ins.

Homemade bars also allow you to control the amount of added sugars and preservatives, ensuring a healthier snack option. With just a few steps, you can create a batch of these bars that will not only satisfy your cravings but also provide lasting energy and nourishment.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almonds or other nuts (chopped)
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup dried strawberries (chopped if large)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or coconut flakes for added flavor

Instructions:

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with a bit of cooking spray or oil.

Toast the Oats and Nuts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and seeds. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the oats and nuts are golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor and crunch of the granola bars.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients: While the oats and nuts are toasting, combine the honey or maple syrup, peanut butter or almond butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.

Combine Ingredients: Once the oats and nuts are toasted, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped dried strawberries and any optional mix-ins, such as mini chocolate chips or coconut flakes. Pour the warm honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Press and Chill: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and compacted. This step is crucial for getting the bars to hold together. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is set and firm.

Slice and Serve: Once chilled, lift the granola bar mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into bars or squares. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

These Strawberry Granola Bars are a perfect balance of sweet and crunchy, offering a satisfying snack that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With their simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, they’re an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade treat that supports a healthy lifestyle.

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