Easy Homemade Granola Bars Recipe for Busy Soccer Moms to Energize
These easy homemade granola bars are a quick, healthy, and delicious snack perfect for busy soccer moms and anyone on the go. Made with simple pantry staples, they offer a chewy texture with a hint of honey and cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups (180g) old-fashioned rolled oats, toasted lightly
- 1/2 cup (125g) nut butter (creamy peanut butter or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup (113g) honey
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1/3 cup (50g) dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 2 cups (180g) rolled oats on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and nutty. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup (125g) nut butter with 1/3 cup (113g) honey. Warm in microwave for 15-20 seconds if stiff. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
- Fold toasted oats, 1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts, 1/3 cup (50g) dried fruit, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and optional 2 tbsp chia or flaxseeds into the wet mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Transfer mixture and press firmly and evenly into the pan using a spoon or lightly greased hands.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set the bars.
- Lift mixture out using parchment overhang and cut into 10-12 bars. If bars crumble, chill longer.
Notes
Toast oats evenly to avoid burnt spots and enhance flavor. Warm nut butter slightly for better binding. Press mixture firmly for bars that hold together well. Chill adequately before cutting to prevent crumbling. Optional baking at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes yields crunchier bars but less chewiness. Customize nuts, fruits, and sweeteners to taste. Use maple syrup and sunflower seed butter for vegan and allergy-friendly versions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (if cut into 1
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 19
- Fiber: 3.5
- Protein: 4.5
Keywords: granola bars, homemade snacks, healthy snacks, easy granola bars, peanut butter bars, energy bars, quick snacks, gluten-free option