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Vanilla Almond Granola Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Perfect for breakfast on the go or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, these homemade granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, almonds, and honey. Easy to make and customizable, they are a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. In this recipe, we will guide you through the simple steps to create your own Vanilla Almond Granola Bars, ensuring you have a tasty treat that satisfies your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and almond butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix Together
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. If you are adding dried fruit or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Press into the Pan
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the granola out of the pan and cut it into bars or squares.
FAQs
Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with any nuts of your choice, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews, to suit your taste preferences.
How do I store Vanilla Almond Granola Bars?
Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months.
Can I make these granola bars vegan?
Yes, you can make these granola bars vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and ensuring that the almond butter is vegan-friendly.
What can I add to customize my granola bars?
You can add various ingredients such as seeds (like chia or flaxseeds), coconut flakes, or different types of dried fruits to customize your granola bars according to your preferences.
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