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.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Freezer: Store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw before eating.
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.
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!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different flavor. - Can I add dried fruits to the bars?
Yes, you can mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture. - How can I make these bars sweeter?
Increase the amount of maple syrup or honey, or add a bit of agave syrup. - What if I don’t have flaxseed meal?
You can omit the flaxseed meal or replace it with chia seeds. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats are preferred for texture, but you can use quick oats if necessary. - How can I make the bars more crunchy?
Toast the oats and peanuts until they are crispier before mixing with the peanut butter mixture. - Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, feel free to use almonds, cashews, or any nut you prefer. - How should I store the bars for the best freshness?
Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture. - Can I make these bars nut-free?
Use sunflower seed butter or tahini as a nut-free alternative to peanut butter. - How do I cut the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife and refrigerate the bars until they are firm for cleaner cuts.