I've been making homemade granola for a healthier snack for several months now. Since then, I've had granola bars on my to-make-someday list, and finally got around to making them today.
So easy. Soo good!
Since we're trying to cut back on the sugar, I debated trying to sub out the brown sugar, but I knew that was what helps make the bars hold together, so I left it in.
Even with the sugar, these bars are healthier than storebought, but have that same soft, chewy texture. Best of all, in my opinion, they are much tastier than anything a factory can churn out!
Ready for the recipe?
CHEWY GRANOLA BARS
In a large bowl, mix together:
4 cups quick cooking oats (do not use rolled oats)
2 cups crispy rice cereal (I found organic brown rice cereal)
This mixture will serve as your base. You can leave it alone or add one, two, or all of the following (I chose ALL):
3 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4-1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4-1/2 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut
1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
1/2 cup raisins
Thoroughly combine dry ingredients. In a small saucepan, melt together:
1/2 cup butter (I'm going to try 1/2 coconut oil next time!)
1/2 cup honey
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
Let mixture come to a bubble. Reduce heat and let cook for 2 minutes. Add:
1 teaspoon vanilla
Stir well. Pour sugar mixture over dry ingredients and mix well to completely moisten.
Pour mixture into a lightly greased jelly roll pan or cookie sheet with high sides. Press granola to be about 3/4 inches thick. Press granola firmly, so bars will hold together. You will likely have a bigger pan than you need (see picture right). Just press mixture to one side of the pan.
Sprinkle bars with:
4 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
Press down lightly. Cool bars completely (about 2 hours) before cutting and storing at room temperature.
These were an absolute hit in our house!! I see all kinds of great variations in the future -- craisins and white chocolate chips. Peanut butter into the sugar mixture. Mmmm....!
Let me know if you try them or share on Pinterest!
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