Looking for a quick, tasty snack? Try my Cherry Almond Granola Bars! Packed with wholesome oats, crunchy almonds, and sweet dried cherries, these bars are simple to make and full of flavor. They’re perfect for a busy day or a healthy treat. In this post, I’ll guide you through an easy recipe, share some health benefits, and offer tips to customize them just how you like. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup almonds, chopped
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
These ingredients come together to form a delightful snack. Each one plays a key role. The rolled oats provide the base, while chopped almonds add a crunchy texture. Dried cherries give a sweet and tart flavor. Honey or maple syrup binds everything, adding sweetness. Almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats. Salt enhances the taste, and vanilla adds warmth. Finally, dark chocolate chips give a little extra joy.
Nutritional Information
One serving of these bars has about 200 calories. You get around 5 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. Each bar also packs in about 3 grams of fiber, which is great for digestion.
Health Benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants. They help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. Almonds provide healthy fats, which are good for your heart. Oats boost your energy and keep you full. They are full of vitamins and minerals, making this snack both tasty and good for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the granola bars bake evenly. Next, line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, measure 2 cups of rolled oats and 1 cup of chopped almonds. Stir them together well. This mix gives the bars a great crunch and nutty flavor.
Preparing the Wet Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of honey (or maple syrup), 1/4 cup of almond butter, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Heat this mixture over low heat. Stir until it is smooth and well combined. This step adds sweetness and flavor to your bars.
Combining Ingredients
Pour the warm wet mixture over the oat and almond mix. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Now fold in 1/2 cup of chopped dried cherries and 1/4 cup of mini dark chocolate chips if you want some extra sweetness. This step adds fruity goodness and a hint of chocolate.
Baking Instructions
Transfer the mixture into the lined baking dish. Spread it evenly and press it down firmly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the edges to turn golden brown. This is a good sign that they are done.
Cooling and Cutting the Granola Bars
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the granola out of the dish. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. After cooling, cut it into bars. Enjoy your tasty snack! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To make your granola bars just right, think about sweetness. You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup. If you want less sugar, use more almond butter. Almond butter gives a nutty flavor and smooth texture. You can also try peanut butter or sun butter for a twist.
Storage Tips
Store your bars in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and chewy. If you want them to last longer, place a piece of wax paper between layers. These bars can last up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your granola bars with yogurt or fresh fruit. They make a great snack with a smoothie, too. For gatherings, stack them neatly on a platter. You can also wrap them in parchment paper and tie with twine. This gives a rustic look and is perfect for gifts.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the nuts in your granola bars. Try using walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. Each nut brings its own flavor and texture. For seeds, sunflower or pumpkin seeds work well. They add crunch and extra nutrients.
You can also change the dried fruit. Instead of cherries, use cranberries or raisins. You can even mix different fruits for a burst of flavor. Each fruit choice alters the taste, making it fun to experiment.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free granola bars, use certified gluten-free oats. This simple swap makes your snack safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup. Almond butter is already vegan, so you’re set. This keeps the bars sweet and tasty while staying plant-based.
Flavor Enhancements
Add spices like cinnamon for a warm twist. Just a dash of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor. These spices give your bars a cozy, homemade feel.
If you’re looking for extra protein, mix in some protein powder. This adds nutrition without changing the taste too much. It’s a great way to make your snack even more filling.
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts or pecans. Each nut adds its own flavor and crunch. Walnuts give a softer bite, while pecans add a buttery taste. Almonds add a nice crunch, which can enhance texture in your bars.
How do I make them chewy or crunchy?
To make your bars chewy, reduce baking time by a few minutes. If you prefer them crunchy, bake them a little longer. You can also add more honey or almond butter for chewiness. This balance in texture lets you enjoy them your way.
Are these granola bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These bars are packed with good nutrients. They have healthy fats and fiber from the nuts and oats. Kids can enjoy them as a snack or even breakfast. Plus, they are easy to grab and eat on the go.
Can I freeze cherry almond granola bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or foil. Place the bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to three months. To thaw, just leave them at room temperature for a few hours before eating.
Full Recipe
Recipe Summary
This Cherry Almond Granola Bar recipe uses simple, healthy ingredients. You need rolled oats, almonds, dried cherries, honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, salt, and vanilla. Optional mini dark chocolate chips add extra flavor.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix oats and almonds in a bowl.
3. Heat honey, almond butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in cherries and chocolate.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
You’ll get 12 tasty bars in about 45 minutes total, including prep time.
Additional Notes
Feel free to swap ingredients based on your taste. Instead of almonds, try walnuts or cashews for a different nutty flavor. You can also use any dried fruit you like, such as cranberries or raisins.
If you want a sweeter bar, add more honey or maple syrup. For a nutty twist, mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg. Enjoy crafting your own version of these delicious granola bars!
You now have a tasty recipe for Cherry Almond Granola Bars. We covered the main ingredients and their health benefits, emphasizing oats’ energy boost, almonds’ healthy fats, and cherries’ antioxidants. I walked you through easy steps, helpful tips, and how to adjust for dietary needs.
These bars offer delicious flavor and good nutrition. Enjoy making them for yourself, or share them with friends and family. They are great for any time of day!
