If you're on the hunt for a snack that's as wholesome as it is satisfying, these Hearty Oatmeal Granola Bars are just the ticket. Packed with nuts and dried fruit, they're perfect for breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Old-fashioned rolled oats form the base of our bars, providing a hearty texture and a good source of fiber. Chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and healthy fats. Honey acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind everything together. Brown sugar adds depth of flavor with its subtle molasses notes. Unsalted butter contributes richness and helps the bars hold their shape. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Finally, dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or apricots provide natural sweetness and chewiness.
These granola bars pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of herbal tea. For a heartier breakfast, crumble one over Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later. This step ensures your bars won't stick to the pan.
Next, spread the rolled oats and chopped nuts evenly on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until they're lightly golden. This toasting step enhances the flavors and brings out the natural nuttiness of the oats and nuts.
While those are toasting, grab a medium saucepan and combine the honey, brown sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly. This should take about 5 minutes. The aroma is heavenly!
Once your oats and nuts are toasted, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the hot honey mixture over the oats and nuts and mix until everything is well coated. Stir in the dried fruit, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Now, transfer this mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. This step is crucial to help the bars hold together once baked.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Once done, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cutting board to cool completely. This helps them set properly.
Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the block into bars of your desired size. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
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