Prep Time & Nutrition:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories per bar: ~180-200 kcal
- Nutritional Breakdown (per bar, approx.):
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fats: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, or any of your choice, roughly chopped)
- ¾ cup dates (pitted and finely chopped)
- ⅓ cup raisins
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line a baking pan (8×8 inch) with parchment paper.
- Toast the Oats & Nuts:
- Spread oats and mixed nuts on a baking sheet.
- Toast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden.
- Remove and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Wet Mixture:
- In a small saucepan, warm maple syrup over low heat.
- Add chopped dates and let them soften for 2-3 minutes.
- Mash slightly with a spoon to create a sticky mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Everything:
- In a large bowl, add toasted oats, nuts, and raisins.
- Pour the warm maple syrup and date mixture over it and mix well until everything is coated.
- Shape & Bake:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Press it down firmly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Cool & Cut:
- Let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Once set, slice into bars or squares.
- Store & Enjoy:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
These naturally sweetened granola bars are chewy, crunchy, and perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast on the go!
Craving more healthy desserts? Try our Whole Wheat Blueberry Muffins – soft, fluffy, and eggless!