Granola Bars I

Homemade Granola Bars Recipe | Healthy Snack | Ingredients include oats, nuts, and dried fruits

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Granola bars are a popular snack option for those looking for a quick and convenient way to fuel up during the day. Packed with a variety of ingredients such as oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, these bars are not only delicious but also nutritious.

History

Granola bars have been around since the late 19th century when they were first created as a health food. Originally made with oats, honey, and nuts, granola bars have evolved over the years to include a wide range of ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

0.33 cup vegetable oil
0.33 cup packed brown sugar
0.25 cup molasses
6 oz (170 g) frozen orange juice concentrate
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp ground ginger
0.5 cup rolled oats
0.5 cup chopped raisins
0.5 cup chopped dried apricots
0.5 cup sunflower seeds
0.5 cup wheat germ
2 tbsp sesame seeds

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a bowl, cream together the oil, brown sugar, and molasses.
Add the defrosted unsweetened orange juice concentrate.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
Blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture.
Stir in the oats, raisins, apricots, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, and sesame seeds. This will result in a very stiff batter.
Spread the batter in a greased 9 x 13 pan.
Bake for about 20–30 minutes or until the bars turn light brown.
Cut the baked mixture into bars.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or coconut flakes for a sweeter flavor.
Use different types of nuts and seeds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a greased pan to prevent the granola bars from sticking.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into individual servings.

- Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

These granola bars can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast option or as a midday snack.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the vegetable oil with coconut oil for a different flavor.

- Use honey or maple syrup instead of molasses for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

These granola bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these granola bars on a platter with fresh fruit for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these granola bars with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a satisfying snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store these granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these granola bars contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these granola bars contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of these granola bars contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of these granola bars contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

These granola bars are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

These granola bars contain wheat and sesame seeds, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, these granola bars are a nutritious snack option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

These homemade granola bars are a delicious and nutritious snack option that can be enjoyed on the go or at home. With a perfect balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, these bars are sure to keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a sunny summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, when she suddenly pulled out a batch of homemade granola bars from her oven.

The aroma that filled the room was absolutely heavenly - a mix of toasted oats, nuts, and honey that made my mouth water. Margaret saw the look of curiosity on my face and smiled knowingly. "I have a feeling you're going to love these," she said as she handed me one of the golden bars.

I took a bite and instantly fell in love. The crunch of the oats, the sweetness of the honey, and the nutty flavor of the almonds all combined to create a delicious and satisfying treat. I asked Margaret for the recipe right then and there, and she happily obliged.

As she wrote down the ingredients and instructions for me, Margaret explained that she had learned to make these granola bars from her own grandmother many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through generations of their family, each adding their own twist and variation to make it their own.

I couldn't wait to try making these granola bars at home. I went straight to the store to gather all the ingredients - oats, almonds, honey, coconut oil, and a few dried fruits for added sweetness. As I mixed everything together and pressed the mixture into a baking pan, I could feel the connection to Margaret and her grandmother, as if their hands were guiding mine.

The bars baked to a perfect golden brown, just like Margaret's. I let them cool before cutting them into squares and taking a bite. The taste was incredible - just like Margaret's, but with my own little twist. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have continued to make these granola bars, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add in different nuts or seeds, or swap out the dried fruit for chocolate chips. Each batch is a little different, but they always bring me back to that sunny summer day in Margaret's kitchen.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a beloved treat for all. My grandchildren especially love helping me make these granola bars, measuring out the ingredients and pressing the mixture into the pan. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition that started with Margaret and her grandmother so many years ago.

As I sit here now, enjoying a freshly baked batch of granola bars with a cup of tea, I can't help but feel grateful for the connections that food can bring. This recipe has not only brought me joy and satisfaction over the years, but it has also connected me to the past and to the loved ones who have shared it with me.

I know that as long as I continue to make these granola bars, I will always have a piece of Margaret and her grandmother with me. And for that, I am truly grateful.