Home Made Healthy and Delicious Granola Bars!

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or cashews)

• 1/2 cup seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or flax seeds)

• 1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped

• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup natural nut butter (e.g., almond butter or peanut butter)

• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, dried fruits, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips (if using). Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

3. Prepare the wet mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat the mixture, stirring continuously until it's smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed. You may need to use a spatula to ensure the mixture is well incorporated.

5. Press into the pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a piece of parchment paper or a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.

6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

7. Cool and slice: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the granola slab out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place it on a cutting board. Slice it into bars or squares of your desired size.

8. Store: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. You can also individually wrap them for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite healthy ingredients like chia seeds, dried berries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Enjoy your homemade healthy granola bars!