Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

Soft and Chewy Granola Bars are a delightful snack that you can easily make at home. These bars are perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a quick pick-me-up during the day. Unlike store-bought options, you control the ingredients, allowing customization to suit your taste. With their chewy texture and sweet flavor, they are sure to impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable Flavors: You can easily swap out dried fruits or nuts based on your preferences.
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious granola bars ready in no time.
• Healthier Option: Made from wholesome ingredients, these bars provide a nutritious snack without preservatives.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for busy weeks or to share with friends.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: Children will love these tasty treats, making them great for school lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make it easier to create these Soft and Chewy Granola Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (8×8 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or spatula
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking dish: Helps shape the granola bars evenly for consistent size.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the bars once cooled.

Ingredients

These homemade granola bars are much better than what you can buy at the store, especially since you can substitute for your favorite dried fruit or nuts. You need to chill the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting them.

For the Base

• 2 ½ cups (230g) old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (80g) whole almonds, coarsely chopped
• 1/3 cup (113g) pure honey
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Mix-Ins

• 1/2 cup (60g) dried cranberries, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (65g) mini chocolate chips

How to Make Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift out the finished granola bars later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The rolled oats
2. Coarsely chopped almonds
3. Fine sea salt

Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt together the unsalted butter, honey, and packed brown sugar until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
1. Stir well until every oat is coated.
2. Fold in dried cranberries and mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Transfer Mixture to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish:
1. Press down firmly with a spatula or spoon to pack it tightly.

Step 6: Chill and Cut Bars

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours:
1. Once firm, lift out using parchment paper overhang.
2. Cut into 12 equal-sized bars.

Now you have delicious Soft and Chewy Granola Bars ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

Soft and chewy granola bars are versatile snacks that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some enjoyable serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Apples or bananas make great companions, providing a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of the bars.
• Berries such as strawberries or blueberries add a burst of flavor and nutrition.

Paired with Yogurt

• Serve your granola bars alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed snack.
• Add honey or maple syrup to the yogurt for extra sweetness.

Ideal for Breakfast on the Go

• Grab a bar as you head out the door for a quick breakfast option when you’re short on time.
• Pair it with a smoothie for a balanced morning meal.

Crumbled Over Oatmeal

• Crumble soft and chewy granola bars over hot oatmeal for added texture and flavor.
• This combination makes for a hearty breakfast or snack.

Perfect for Lunchboxes

• Include them in lunchboxes for kids or adults alike, providing an energy boost during the day.
• Consider wrapping each bar individually for easy packing.

As Post-Workout Fuel

• Enjoy a bar after exercising to replenish your energy stores.
• Pair it with water or an electrolyte drink for optimal recovery.

How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

To ensure your homemade soft and chewy granola bars turn out just right, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Make sure your oats, nuts, and dried fruits are fresh to maximize flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip chilling – Chilling the bars is essential; it helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into pieces.
• Customize your mix-ins – Feel free to swap out dried fruits or nuts based on your preferences to create unique flavor combinations.
• Press firmly – When spreading the mixture into the pan, press it down firmly. This helps the bars hold together better once cut.
• Store properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

Soft and chewy granola bars can be complemented by various delicious side dishes. Consider these options to elevate your snacking experience.

1. Smoothie Bowl – A refreshing smoothie topped with fruits and seeds pairs well with granola bars.
2. Cottage Cheese – Serve with cottage cheese sprinkled with cinnamon for added protein and creaminess.
3. Nut Butter Dip – Have almond or peanut butter on the side for dipping; it adds richness and flavor.
4. Trail Mix – A small bowl of trail mix enhances texture and provides additional nutrients alongside the bars.
5. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy chia pudding can be served as a dessert-like side dish that complements granola perfectly.
6. Vegetable Sticks – Crunchy carrot or celery sticks offer a healthy crunch alongside sweet granola bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft and Chewy Granola Bars at home can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the bars for at least 2 hours can result in crumbly granola bars. Always allow enough time for them to set properly.
• Using quick oats instead of rolled oats: Quick oats will make your bars mushy. Stick with old fashioned rolled oats for the right texture.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can harden the bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden brown.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accurate measurements, as this affects both texture and flavor.
• Neglecting customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe may limit flavor. Feel free to swap nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Line the container with parchment paper for easy removal of bars.

Freezing Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar on high for 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Soft and Chewy Granola Bars:

Can I use different sweeteners in Soft and Chewy Granola Bars?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a vegan option.

How do I make my Soft and Chewy Granola Bars crunchy?

For crunchier bars, add more nuts or bake them a little longer while keeping an eye on their color.

Can I add protein powder to these granola bars?

Absolutely! Adding protein powder is a great way to boost nutrition. Start with 1/4 cup mixed into the dry ingredients.

What other mix-ins work well with Soft and Chewy Granola Bars?

Feel free to experiment with other dried fruits, seeds, or nut butters based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Granola Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them easily by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Try making these homemade treats today for a wholesome snack or breakfast option!