We love these easy peanut butter granola bars. They are nutritious, naturally vegan, and gluten-free. Perfect for a healthy snack, these bars are packed with flavor and simple to make.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes (plus 2 hours refrigeration)
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 3/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Flaxseed Mixture:
- Mix 3 tablespoons of flaxseed meal with 6 tablespoons of water.
- Place this mixture in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to thicken. This helps the bars stick together.
- Toast the Oats and Peanuts:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Chop the peanuts and spread them along with 3 cups of rolled oats on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Spread them into a single layer and bake for 5 minutes, stir, and then bake for another 3 to 5 minutes until they are lightly golden.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, add 3/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter, 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or honey), 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Stir in the thickened flaxseed mixture from the refrigerator.
- Combine and Mix:
- Once the oats and peanuts have cooled a bit, add them to the peanut butter mixture.
- Stir everything together until all the oats are well coated.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional):
- For chocolate peanut butter bars, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips. Larger chips or chunks are not ideal here.
- Press the Mixture into a Pan:
- Transfer the granola mixture to an 8×8-inch square pan.
- Use a rubber spatula to press the mixture into the pan firmly. Press hard to ensure the bars stay together once cooled.
- One trick is to add a sheet of parchment paper on top and then use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to really press it into the pan.
- Refrigerate and Slice:
- Refrigerate for two hours until the mixture is set and hard.
- Once set, slice them into 12 bars.
- Store:
- Store the bars in an airtight container for up to one week or in the freezer for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a healthy snack or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a nutritious addition to any meal.
Cooking Tips
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is crucial for ensuring the bars hold together.
- Use parchment paper to make it easier to press and remove the bars from the pan.
- Customize the recipe by adding dried fruits, nuts, or seeds.
Nutritional Benefits
- Flaxseed: High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Peanuts: Provide protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
- Oats: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes (if using maple syrup)
- Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure oats are certified gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Egg-Free: Yes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these easy peanut butter granola bars for their delicious, nutty flavor and satisfying texture. They are quick to make, healthy, and perfect for a nutritious snack or breakfast. Plus, they are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
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Conclusion
Enjoy these homemade, delicious peanut butter granola bars that are nutritious and easy to make. Perfect for snacking or as a quick breakfast, they can be stored for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Bon appétit!