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Before diving into the preparation of these delicious granola bars, it's essential to understand the key ingredients that make them not only tasty but also nutritious. Each component plays a vital role in the overall health benefits of the bars, ensuring they are as good for you as they are enjoyable.

The Best Homemade Granola Bars – Chewy & Nutty!

Discover the joy of homemade snacks with the Ultimate Chewy Nutty Granola Bars recipe. These delicious bars are not only easy to make but also packed with energy-boosting ingredients like rolled oats, nut butter, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Perfect for a post-workout fuel or a midday treat, these wholesome bars are customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Say goodbye to store-bought snacks and indulge in a nutritious, guilt-free delight that you can feel good about!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, or a mix)

1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots)

1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional, but recommended!)

1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until warmed and smooth, then remove from heat. Add in the vanilla extract.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, chia seeds (or flaxseeds), cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until the oat mixture is completely coated. If using, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage.

          Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly using the back of a spatula or your hands, ensuring an even layer. This helps the bars hold together better once baked.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The center will still be soft but will firm up as it cools.

              Cool & Cut: Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the granola block out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into bars or squares.

                Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 bars