Healthy Homemade Granola Bars

Everyone has those super busy days when sitting down to eat is a luxury, and having anything other than cold leftovers is impossible. As the mother of a six month old baby, I definitely understand. I have learned to really appreciate things that are healthy, quick-cooking, and can be eaten with one hand. Say hello to homemade granola bars! These scrumptious little squares are full of wholesome ingredients that will give you the protein and nutrients to keep you going. One of the best things about granola bars is their adaptability. The dried fruit, nuts, spices, flour, and additions can all be altered to suit your taste. Don’t like coconut? Add sunflower seeds! Not a fan of almonds? Use walnuts! I make a lot of granola around here, both in cereal and bar form, and these are definitely the best I have ever had. Give them a try and get creative!

Healthy Homemade Granola Bars

A few notes on the ingredients- I used white whole wheat flour for its milder flavor, but you can also use whole wheat, oat, etc. For the dried fruit, I used a mix of cranberries and raisins. The nuts I chose were slivered almonds.

• 1 2/3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup dried fruit, chopped if needed
• 1 cup nuts, chopped if needed
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut (flakes or shredded)
• 1/3 cup golden flax meal (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter (I prefer the coconut oil)
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (I used honey)
• 1 tablespoon water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9x13 pan with parchment paper (these are very sticky and can be difficult to get out of the pan.)

In a large bowl, mix together the first nine ingredients (dry). In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients (wet). Pour the wet mixture onto the dry and stir until thoroughly combined.

Spread into the pan, packing it in by pressing firmly on the top with an oiled hand, the back of a silicone spatula, or with a piece of plastic wrap.

Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan, and then lift them out with the parchment paper. Cut into desired sizes (a pizza cutter works nicely).

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a week or so.

If you love granola you might also want to try our recipe for the Best Homemade Granola!

Have you ever made granola bars? Do you think you'll try these healthy homemade granola bars?

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