Chewy granola bars are the perfect snack to have on hand for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat. Made with a combination of oats, honey, and your choice of add-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, these bars are both delicious and wholesome. They strike a great balance between chewy and crunchy, making them a hit with both kids and adults. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making them a versatile snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup crispy rice cereal
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, crispy rice cereal, chopped nuts, and dried fruit. Set aside.
- Heat wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, honey (or maple syrup), and brown sugar. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved, and the mixture starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Combine and mix: Pour the warm syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. If you’re using chocolate chips, let the mixture cool slightly before stirring them in to avoid melting.
- Press into pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to ensure the bars hold together.
- Chill and set: Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set.
- Cut and store: Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Enjoy your homemade chewy granola bars as a delicious, homemade alternative to store-bought snacks!
