Homemade Granola Bars

GRAB & GO SNACKS

I have always loved a great granola bar but purchasing from the grocery store is far too expensive for what you receive in return. Plus the quality vs price doesn't add up.  Grocery store bars are like junk food but dressed up to be consumed as a healthy alternative. The main ingredient is sugar! A "good for you" granola bar has the same amount of calories as some chocolate bars with high sodium, sugars, corn syrup & fructose added. Check out those labels. 

So I decided to make my own which turned our fantastic! Usually have enough to get us through a work week for snacks & if not it takes no time at all to  make more.

If you would like to share with friends & family please share this link :)
ENJOY this non baked granola bar & look forward to hearing some feedback. Let me know the twists you made to make them your own! 

CRANBERRY ALMOND HONEY BAR  

Ingredients:

•  2 1/2 cup old fashion rolled oats
• 1/2 cup whole almonds coarsely chopped
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup butter 
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla  
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips 
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

2. Line bottom of 9" square pan with parchment paper.

3. Toast oats, almonds & coconut on a baking sheet for 5 minutes. Stir & bake for another 5 minutes. Until lightly toasted. You will start to smell something wonderful.  Transfer to bowl. 

 

4. Combine butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla in a small sauce pan on medium heat. Stir occasionally until butter melts & is bubbly.

5. Pour mixture into oats, nut & coconut mixture. Once completely mixed let sit for 4-6 minutes. Add dried berries & 1/4 cup chocolate chips. Stir until combined.

6. Firmly press mixture into the 9" pan with spatula. Sprinkle 1 tbsp chocolate chips & press.

7. Cover & fridge for 3 hrs. Cut into 12 bars & store in fridge. 
 

Hint: 
*Make sure to use old fashion rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats
*For a softer granola bar leave them out of the fridge or if you like them hard keep them cool. 
* Bars will keep over a week in the fridge.