Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy snack or breakfast option? Look no further! These homemade vegan granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, require minimal effort, and are incredibly satisfying. Forget those store-bought bars loaded with sugar and questionable ingredients; this recipe lets you control exactly what goes into your energy-boosting treats. Perfect for busy mornings, packed lunches, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these granola bars are a fantastic addition to your healthy meal planning. They're also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless flavor combinations to suit your taste buds. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- ½ cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, chia – mix and match!)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener like agave)
- ¼ cup nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew – your preference!)
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots) – add for extra sweetness and texture!
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg
In a small bowl, whisk together the flaxseed meal and water. Set aside for 5-10 minutes to allow it to thicken into a gel-like consistency. This acts as a binding agent in our vegan granola bars, replacing eggs.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the maple syrup, nut butter, flax egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is moist but not overly wet. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 4: Optional: Add Dried Fruit
If using dried fruit, gently fold it into the mixture now.
Step 5: Press into a Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make lifting the bars easier later. Press the granola mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or spatula to create a compact layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Remove the pan from the oven and let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into your desired size. The bars will firm up as they cool. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
Tips for Perfect Granola Bars:
- Customize your flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment! Add different spices like ginger or nutmeg, or try different types of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Chocolate chips would also be a delicious addition.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet granola bars, reduce the amount of maple syrup.
- Storage: Store your homemade granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They also freeze well!
Nutritional Information (per bar – approximate, will vary based on ingredients used):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 3-4g
These vegan granola bars are a quick dinner idea, perfect for a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast option. Enjoy your homemade creation! They are also fantastic quick and easy recipes for beginners and experienced cooks. This recipe provides a healthy meal and showcases homemade cooking at its best. These are truly some of the best recipes for satisfying and nutritious snacking.