Imagine biting into a chewy, sweet, and nutty granola bar that transports you to a tropical paradise. These Tropical Coconut Granola Bars are your perfect snack for a taste of sunshine, no matter the season.
Rolled oats form the hearty base of these bars, providing a chewy texture and a boost of fiber. Shredded coconut adds a sweet, nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the oats. Chopped dried mango and chopped dried pineapple bring a burst of sweetness and a hint of tropical tang. The honey acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind the ingredients together. Almond butter adds a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor. Coconut oil works as both a flavor enhancer and a binding agent. Brown sugar deepens the sweetness and adds a touch of caramel flavor. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, while a pinch of sea salt enhances the overall taste.
These bars are delightful as a standalone snack, but you can also crumble them over Greek yogurt for a delicious breakfast parfait. Pair them with a tropical smoothie for an extra dose of island vibes.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F, and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make them easy to lift out once baked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped dried mango, and chopped dried pineapple. Give everything a good stir to ensure the fruits are evenly distributed among the oats and coconut.
Next, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, almond butter, coconut oil, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until everything is smooth and melted, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This mixture will act as the glue that holds your granola bars together.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Pour this warm, sticky mixture over your bowl of dry ingredients. Mix until every oat and piece of fruit is nicely coated.
Once fully combined, press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly so that all bars bake at the same rate.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. This gives the bars a nice crisp edge while keeping the inside chewy. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into individual pieces.