Imagine biting into a perfectly crafted granola bar that's not just a snack, but a delicious adventure of flavors and nutrition. These homemade Peanut Butter and Honey Granola Bars are about to revolutionize your snacking game, offering a mouthwatering blend of sweet honey, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy almonds that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or a parent looking for a healthy treat, these bars are your ultimate go-to solution for quick, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying energy.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of rolled oats and 1/2 cup of chopped almonds. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup of honey. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the peanut butter and honey mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and pour it over the oat and almond mixture in the mixing bowl.
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything together until the oats and almonds are evenly coated with the peanut butter and honey mixture.
- If you are using chocolate chips, fold in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips into the mixture at this point, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula or your hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the dish, making sure it is compacted well.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Allow the granola to cool completely before cutting it into 12 bars. This will help the bars hold their shape.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Tips
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and chewiness.
- Toast your almonds lightly before chopping for enhanced nutty flavor.
- Press the mixture very firmly into the pan to ensure bars hold together well.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- For a healthier version, use natural peanut butter with no added sugars.
- Experiment with mix-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or different types of nuts.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
