When it comes to classic grab 'n go snacks, nothing beats granola bars. They're delicious, satisfying, and the definition of travel-friendly. Unfortunately, most store-bought versions are teeming with refined sugar, making them less than ideal for healthy eating. So why not make your own? With ingredients like quinoa, oats, and nut butter, you can fuel up on protein and fiber, two nutrients that keep hunger at bay. Top it off with natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup, and you've got yourself a nutritious (and cheap) snack.
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Things You'll Need
1 cup uncooked quinoa
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
2/3 cup seed or nut butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla
Butter or coconut oil for greasing
Step 1
Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the quinoa, oats, and walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 15 minutes, mixing halfway.
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Step 2
Meanwhile, over medium heat, combine the honey and nut or seed butter.
Step 3
Stir well to combine, taking extra care to avoid boiling. Turn down to low heat when the edges start to bubble.
Step 4
Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Step 5
Mix, mix, and mix some more. Keep over very low heat until the quinoa and oats are finished toasting, stirring occasionally.
Step 6
Add the granola and mix well.
Step 7
Stir until thoroughly combined, making sure that there aren't pools of liquid at the bottom.
Step 8
If you'd like, add extra ingredients like coconut flakes, dried fruit (without added sugar), chocolate chips, or sunflower seeds. This is an awesome way to customize your granola bars.
Tip
To make multiple types of granola bars, split the mixture into 2 or 3 bowls and add different ingredients to each one.
Step 9
Grease a metal baking sheet with butter or coconut oil. Spread the granola bar mixture into the pan, creating a nice and even layer. Press together any gaps with clean fingers.
Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours.
Step 10
Once the mixture has hardened, slice into bars or cubes.
For even more flavor, drizzle melted dark chocolate onto the bars. You can also do this step before refrigerating and slicing to cover the entire batch. Another tasty idea is to add a dusting of cocoa, matcha powder, or more cinnamon.
Store the granola bars in an air-tight container. For healthy snacking on the go, use a re-sealable sandwich bag or beeswax wrap.
