Are you looking for a tasty and healthy snack? Cherry Almond Granola Bars deliver on both counts! Packed with sweet cherries and crunchy almonds, they are easy to make and delicious too. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a midday pick-me-up, these bars check all the boxes. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to create this delightful treat for you and your family!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Cherry Almond Granola Bars
To make these tasty cherry almond granola bars, you’ll need the following:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup almonds, roughly chopped
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped if large
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
Nutritional Information
These granola bars are not just tasty but also healthy. Each bar is packed with nutrients. A serving contains:
– Calories: About 150
– Protein: 3 grams
– Fiber: 2 grams
– Sugars: 6 grams (from honey or maple syrup)
– Healthy fats from almonds and almond butter
Quality Tips for Ingredient Selection
When selecting ingredients, keep these tips in mind:
– Rolled oats: Choose whole grain oats for more fiber and nutrients.
– Almonds: Go for raw or lightly roasted almonds for better flavor and health benefits.
– Dried cherries: Look for unsweetened cherries to avoid extra sugar.
– Honey or maple syrup: Use pure honey or real maple syrup for the best taste.
– Almond butter: Select natural almond butter with no added sugars or oils.
These tips will help you create delicious and nutritious granola bars that you can enjoy anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. Add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped almonds, and 1 cup of dried cherries. If your cherries are big, chop them smaller. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything is evenly combined. This blend gives your bars a great taste and texture.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Now, take a small saucepan. Over low heat, warm up 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup and 1/4 cup of almond butter. Stir them together until smooth. Remove the pan from heat and add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This mixture binds the dry ingredients and adds rich flavor.
Assembling and Baking the Bars
Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well coated. Next, transfer the mixture into your baking dish. Press it down firmly to create an even layer. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of sliced almonds on top and gently press them in. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown. After baking, let the bars cool for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out, then cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into 16 bars and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Crumbly Bars
To keep your granola bars from crumbling, press the mixture firmly into the baking dish. Use a flat tool, like a spatula, to ensure even pressure. This helps the bars hold together. Letting them cool slightly before cutting also helps maintain their shape.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
Add more flavor by mixing in other nuts or seeds. Chopped walnuts or pumpkin seeds work great. You can also try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a richer taste. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can add more sweetness and color.
Best Practices for Even Baking
For even baking, spread the mixture into a uniform layer in the dish. Keep an eye on the oven to avoid burning. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the dish halfway through baking. This ensures all sides get that perfect golden brown color.
Variations
Substituting Other Nuts and Fruits
You can switch up nuts and fruits in this recipe. Try walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Each nut brings a unique taste and texture. For fruits, consider dried apricots, cranberries, or even raisins. Each option will give your bars a new twist. Just make sure to keep the amounts similar to keep the balance right.
Vegan Option with Maple Syrup
To make these bars vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey. It adds a rich sweetness without animal products. You can also use a nut or seed butter, like sunflower seed butter. This keeps the bars creamy and tasty. Check the label to ensure it’s truly vegan to stay on track.
Gluten-Free Adjustments
To make these bars gluten-free, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Some oats may contain traces of gluten from processing. You can also swap in gluten-free flour for a bit of added texture. This way, everyone can enjoy these cherry almond granola bars without worry.
Storage Info
Best Methods for Storing Granola Bars
To keep your cherry almond granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from drying out. You can layer parchment paper between the bars to stop them from sticking. If you want to take them on the go, wrap them individually in parchment paper. This makes them easy to grab.
Freezing Instructions and Tips
You can freeze these granola bars for longer storage. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat one, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life and Freshness Guidelines
These granola bars last about a week at room temperature. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard them. For best taste and texture, enjoy them within the first few days after baking.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars nut-free?
Yes, you can make these granola bars nut-free. Simply replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter. Use sunflower seeds instead of almonds. You still get a nice crunch and flavor without nuts.
How do I keep granola bars from sticking together?
To keep granola bars from sticking, use a parchment paper liner. Press the mixture firmly into the dish but not too tightly. Let them cool completely before cutting. This helps them hold their shape.
What can I use instead of almond butter?
If you need a substitute for almond butter, try peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. Both will work well. They add creaminess and flavor, just like almond butter does.
How long do homemade granola bars last?
Homemade granola bars last about one week at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
Can I add chocolate to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips to the mixture. Mix in about half a cup of dark or milk chocolate chips before baking. This adds a sweet touch to the bars.
To make Cherry Almond Granola Bars, gather quality ingredients and follow simple steps. I shared tips for tasty bars and ways to store them well. You can create your own flavors by swapping nuts or trying vegan options.
These bars are easy and fun to make. Enjoy them as a snack or a breakfast treat. With a little care, your granola bars can be fresh and delicious for weeks. Now, go ahead and try this recipe!
