Are you craving a healthy and satisfying snack that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! These baked granola bites are the perfect solution. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients, require minimal effort, and are endlessly customizable to your taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, packed lunches, or a quick energy boost anytime, these granola bites are sure to become a new favorite in your healthy recipe collection. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- 1/4 cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, chia – mix and match!)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated with the sticky mixture.
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Shape the Bites: Using a spoon or your hands (slightly oiled to prevent sticking), scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each bite.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the granola bites are golden brown and slightly firm. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the granola bites cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a container for storage. This allows them to firm up nicely.
Tips for Granola Bite Success:
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your perfect granola bite blend. Cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots add delicious sweetness and texture.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet treat, start with less and add more as needed.
- Storage: Store your baked granola bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Variations:
- Chocolate Granola Bites: Add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the mix for an extra decadent treat.
- Spiced Granola Bites: Add a pinch of ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm and inviting flavor.
- Fruity Granola Bites: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or raisins for added sweetness and fruity notes.
Nutritional Information (per bite – approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical granola bite will offer a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying snack.
This easy recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas or a healthy snack. Enjoy these delicious and homemade granola bites! They're a simple, healthy, and flavorful addition to any meal plan, perfect for both easy recipes and best recipes. They are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your healthy eating goals.