Granola bars are a popular snack choice for people of all ages. They are convenient, portable, and can provide a quick energy boost. However, store-bought granola bars often contain artificial preservatives, added sugars, and other unhealthy additives.

Making your own granola bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and make a healthier version. This recipe for Nut and Date Granola Bars with Honey is not only nutritious but also delicious.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make these homemade granola bars:.

1 ½ cups of rolled oats
1 cup of chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
1 cup of pitted dates
½ cup of honey
¼ cup of almond butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon of salt

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own Nut and Date Granola Bars with Honey:.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped nuts.
In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until they form a sticky paste.
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is well combined and slightly bubbly.
Pour the honey mixture over the oats and nuts in the bowl. Add the date paste as well.
Using your hands or a spatula, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking dish and press it firmly into an even layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the granola bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
Once cooled, cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife.

Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to personalize your granola bars to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:.

Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for extra sweetness.
Incorporate shredded coconut or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Try using different nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter instead of almond butter.
If you prefer a crunchy texture, you can toast the oats and nuts before mixing them with the other ingredients.

Storage

These Nut and Date Granola Bars with Honey can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a hot and humid environment, it is best to keep them refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

They are perfect to grab on the go, enjoy as a snack, or even pack in your kids’ lunchboxes.

Conclusion

Making your own granola bars allows you to take control of your snack choices and avoid unhealthy additives found in store-bought options.

These Nut and Date Granola Bars with Honey are a nutritious and delicious alternative that will satisfy your cravings for a sweet and crunchy snack. With the freedom to customize the ingredients, you can create a snack that suits your taste preferences while ensuring you are nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.