Looking for a wholesome, make-ahead snack that's both delicious and nutrient-packed? These Fruity Granola Bars are the perfect answer! Bursting with flavors from dried cranberries, chopped apricots, and almonds, these bars offer a satisfying crunch complemented by the natural sweetness of honey and a touch of warm cinnamon. This easy recipe combines pantry staples like rolled oats, sunflower seeds, and peanut butter for a chewy yet satisfying texture. Baked to golden perfection and chilled for a firm finish, these granola bars are ideal for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or an on-the-go treat. Plus, they're super versatileβeasily customize them to your taste or dietary preferences. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps, these homemade bars are a healthier, budget-friendly alternative to store-bought snacks. Store them in the fridge or freezer and enjoy a grab-and-go delight anytime!
Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (165Β°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, dried cranberries, dried apricots, and sunflower seeds. Stir until evenly distributed.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, peanut butter, and coconut oil. Stir until smooth and melted together, about 2β3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Using a spatula, stir until all the dry ingredients are well coated and evenly mixed.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly into an even layer using the back of a spatula or your hands.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Once chilled, lift the granola slab out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into 12 evenly-sized bars.
Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Calories |
2479 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 124.6 g | 160% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.6 g | 173% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 883 mg | 38% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 298.1 g | 108% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.4 g | 144% | |
| Total Sugars | 155.0 g | ||
| Protein | 66.8 g | 134% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 453 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 13.6 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 1978 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.