Imagine biting into a perfectly crafted granola bar that combines the rich, decadent taste of dark chocolate, the sweet-tart burst of cherries, and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. These aren't just any granola bars - they're a gourmet experience that transforms your ordinary snack time into a moment of pure culinary bliss. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie, a busy professional looking for a quick energy boost, or someone who simply loves incredible flavors, these homemade granola bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and chopped almonds. Toast them lightly by spreading on a baking sheet and placing in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- In a small saucepan, warm honey (or maple syrup) and almond butter over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Add the toasted oats and almonds back to the large mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey-almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Fold in chopped dried cherries and dark chocolate chips, mixing gently to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top begins to look set.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the entire block out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Toast your oats and almonds carefully to enhance their nutty flavor - but watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the most intense chocolate experience.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure bars hold together well.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- For extra richness, consider using a mix of honey and maple syrup.
- Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats.
- Experiment with different nut butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
