Irresistible Bliss: How to Make Your Own Dried Fruit and Nut Granola Bars

Introduction:

Say goodbye to store-bought granola bars filled with additives and hello to the joy of creating your own wholesome and delicious treats! In this guide, we'll embark on a journey to make irresistibly blissful Dried Fruit and Nut Granola Bars. Packed with natural sweetness, crunch, and a myriad of textures, these bars are not only a tasty snack but also a satisfying energy boost for your busy days.

Ingredients:

Old-Fashioned Oats:

2 cups

Mixed Nuts:

1 cup (almonds, walnuts, and cashews work well)

Dried Fruits:

1/2 cup chopped DIY dried fruits (apricots, cranberries, raisins, or a combination)

Nut Butter:

1/2 cup natural almond butter or peanut butter

Honey or Maple Syrup:

1/2 cup for sweetness and binding

Coconut Oil:

1/4 cup, melted

Vanilla Extract:

1 teaspoon for flavor

Salt:

A pinch for balance

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Toast the Oats and Nuts:

Spread the oats and mixed nuts on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure even toasting.

Prepare the Nut Butter Mixture:

In a saucepan, gently heat the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats and nuts with the chopped dried fruits. Pour the nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.

Press into the Baking Dish:

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands, slightly wet to prevent sticking.

Chill and Set:

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the granola mixture has set.

Cut into Bars:

Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola slab out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board and cut into bars of your desired size.

Store and Enjoy:

Store the bars in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a week or refrigerated for a longer shelf life.

Customization Tips:

Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars before chilling.

Seeds: Boost the nutritional profile by adding chia seeds or flaxseeds to the mix.

Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.

Conclusion: