Looking for a tasty, healthy snack? You’ve found it with my Cherry Almond Granola Bars! Packed with rolled oats, almonds, and dried cherries, these bars are simple to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you need a quick boost during your day or a satisfying treat for kids, I’ll guide you step-by-step to make your own delicious snack. Let’s dive in and get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits, making it a nutritious snack option.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the dried cherries for other fruits or add different nuts, tailoring it to your taste preferences.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these granola bars can be whipped up quickly, perfect for busy days.
- Great for On-the-Go: These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy snack, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup almonds, chopped
– 1 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
These simple ingredients make a tasty and healthy snack. The rolled oats form the base. They provide fiber and energy. The chopped almonds add crunch and healthy fats. Dried cherries bring sweetness and flavor. You can use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener. Almond butter gives a creamy texture and nutty taste. Light brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor. The vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. Salt balances the sweetness. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth. If you love chocolate, mini chocolate chips are a fun addition.
You can mix and match these ingredients to fit your taste. Consider adding different nuts or seeds. Try using other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. This flexibility makes these bars a perfect fit for your snack needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift the bars out later.
2. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped almonds, and 1 cup of roughly chopped dried cherries. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well to blend all the dry ingredients.
3. Melt wet ingredients in a saucepan. In a small saucepan, add 1/2 cup of honey (or maple syrup), 1/2 cup of almond butter, and 1/4 cup of light brown sugar. Heat on low, stirring continuously until everything melts together. Once smooth, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Mix dry and wet ingredients together. Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated. You can add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips if you want a sweet touch.
5. Transfer to baking dish and press down. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly. Make sure it is even and compact.
Baking Instructions
1. Bake until golden brown. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the edges to turn golden brown.
2. Cooling and cutting the granola bars. After baking, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for about 15 minutes in the pan. Use the parchment edges to lift the granola block out and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool completely. Then, cut into bars or squares. Store them in an airtight container for up to one week.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Best Results
– Mix the dry ingredients well. This helps spread the flavor evenly.
– Press the mixture firmly in the baking dish. This gives the bars a nice, solid texture.
Customization Ideas
– If you have allergies, swap almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
– You can add other fruits like dried apricots or cranberries. Nuts like walnuts or pecans also work well.
– For a twist, try adding some coconut flakes or a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Experimenting is key. Enjoy making these bars your own!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh almonds and dried cherries. This will enhance the overall taste of your granola bars.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your desired sweetness level. You can start with less and add more if needed.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, press it down firmly to ensure the bars hold together after baking.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients such as seeds, coconut flakes, or different dried fruits to personalize your granola bars.
Variations
Different Flavor Combinations
You can easily change the flavor of your granola bars. Try using different nuts, like walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a crunchy texture and unique taste. You can also mix in various dried fruits. Dried apricots or cranberries work great, adding a sweet and tart flavor. Just chop them up and fold them into the mix.
Dietary-Specific Versions
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free rolled oats. They work just as well and keep the bars chewy. For a vegan version, swap honey with maple syrup. This change keeps your bars sweet and delicious while meeting plant-based needs. You can also use a nut-free butter if allergies are a concern. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty snacks!
Storage Info
Storage Tips
To keep your cherry almond granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from making them soggy. You can also wrap each bar in parchment paper for extra protection.
Use a container made of glass or BPA-free plastic. These materials help retain freshness better than others. If you want to take them on the go, consider a reusable snack bag.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, these granola bars last up to one week. In a cool, dry place, they retain their flavor and texture. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just be aware that cold storage might make them a bit harder.
If you want to save them for longer, consider freezing them. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for a tasty snack!
FAQs
How do I make these granola bars chewy?
To make your granola bars chewy, use more almond butter and honey. These ingredients add moisture and help bind the oats. If you like, you can also add a little more dried fruit. This will make the bars softer.
Can I replace almond butter with peanut butter?
Yes, you can use peanut butter instead of almond butter. It will change the flavor slightly. Peanut butter is creamy and tasty, just like almond butter. Just make sure to use the same amount.
What’s the best way to cut granola bars?
To cut granola bars, let them cool first. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. You can also use a ruler to guide the cuts. This helps you get even bars. If they stick, run the knife under warm water.
Are there any substitutes for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey. Both will give the bars sweetness. They work well in the same amount, too. Choose the one you like best for flavor.
Where can I buy pre-made cherry almond granola bars?
You can find pre-made cherry almond granola bars at most grocery stores. Look in the snack aisle or health food section. You can also check online retailers for more options.
These homemade granola bars are simple to make with easy steps and tasty ingredients. We covered the best mix of rolled oats, nuts, and sweeteners. You can customize flavors to your liking or adapt for dietary needs.
Remember to store them properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy these healthy snacks anytime. Making granola bars at home is both fun and rewarding. Now, you can create your own delicious treat
