Cranberry Almond Granola Bars (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cranberry Almond Granola Bars
Cranberry almond granola bars are a delightful blend of chewy and crunchy textures, making them a perfect snack for any time of day. These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, almonds, and dried cranberries, providing a satisfying energy boost without the guilt. The combination of sweet and tart cranberries with the nutty flavor of almonds creates a harmonious balance that will keep you reaching for just one more bite.
Historically, granola bars have roots in the health food movement of the 1960s, when they were first popularized as a nutritious snack option. They have since evolved into a staple for busy individuals and families alike, often found in lunchboxes and gym bags. Making your own granola bars at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also ensures that you can customize them to your taste. Plus, they make for a great homemade gift—just don’t forget to keep a few for yourself!
The beauty of these cranberry almond granola bars lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for breakfast on the go or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a snack that feels like a treat but is actually good for you? Just remember, if you eat too many, you might need to roll yourself out of the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.5 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for toasting the oats and nuts, enhancing their flavors.
- Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once they are set.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped almonds, and 1 cup of dried cranberries. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 0.5 cup of honey and 0.5 cup of peanut butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 0.25 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 teaspoon of cinnamon. This step adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Pour the warm honey-peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer. This helps the bars hold together better.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the bars to firm up.
- Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Allow them to cool completely before cutting.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 bars or squares, depending on your preference. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Enjoy your homemade cranberry almond granola bars as a nutritious snack or breakfast option. They’re perfect for busy mornings or a post-workout boost!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 200
- Carbs g: 30
- Protein g: 5
- Fat g: 8
- Sugar g: 10
