I don't buy prepackaged foods because of all the added harmful ingredients, preservatives and chemicals. And while, sure, there are offerings that are free of these things, the prices are crazy! So when we need granola bars I always make my own. It's easier than you think, quick and customizable. For instance in this recipe you can completely omit the peanut butter if you'd like, and you can add in whatever dried fruit and nuts you that you prefer. Give these a try! I know your family will love them!
Ingredients:
6 Cups whole oats
1 1/2 Cups chopped nuts ( if not using nuts add more oats or other add-ins)
1 Cup add-ins ( dried fruit, nuts, seeds)
1/2 Cup of oil ( I use a coconut/avocado blend but whatever baking oil you use will work )
3/4 Cup brown sugar
1/2 Cup honey
1/4 Cup pure maple syrup ( or you can omit this and use 3/4 cup of honey)
1/2 Cup peanut butter ( If using)
1 Teaspoon salt
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 Teaspoon maple extract
Seasonings if desired ( Cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, allspice)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
In a large bowl combine oats, salt and oil
Spread oats out onto a lined baking sheet
Bake for 25 minutes stirring every 7-10 minutes
Returned toasted oats to large bowl
Add nuts, dried fruit or any add-ins and set aside
In a sauce pan combine sugar, honey and maple syrup if using
Over a medium heat stir mixture continuously for 5 minutes or until sugar is completely dissolved and ingredients are combined
Remove from heat and add in peanut butter (if using), extracts, and any seasonings(if using )
Mix well and pour over oats
Use a rubber spatula to combine oats and liquid mixture
Once combine dump mixture onto a lined cookie sheet
Firmly press mixture into the pan in a flat, tight, even layer
The mixture takes up half the space of an average size cookie sheet but use whatever pan works for the size and shape bars you want
Bake at 300 degrees for 35 minutes
Allow granola to cool for 15 minutes before cutting into the shape you want it
Once cut, allow to continue to cool a few more minutes until set. Bars will be crunchy once cooled.
Enjoy!