Granola Snacks Recipe
Granola snacks are a delicious, healthy option packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon boost, or a quick grab-and-go treat, these snacks provide the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness with a touch of sweetness. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, customizable recipe.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Saucepan
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9x9-inch baking pan
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds chopped or slivered
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup shredded coconut optional
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips optional
Instructions
Toast the Dry Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the rolled oats, almonds, and sunflower seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Prepare the Wet Mixture
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, and peanut butter. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, and shredded coconut. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, and stir well to coat everything evenly.
Add Mix-ins
- Gently fold in the dried cranberries or raisins and dark chocolate chips (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed.
Shape and Chill
- Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the granola mixture firmly into the pan using a spatula or your hands. Cover with another piece of parchment paper and press down again to compact it well.
Refrigerate and Cut
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until firm. Remove from the pan using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and slice into bars or bite-sized pieces.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Granola Snacks
- Compact the Mixture Well: The more firmly you press the granola mixture into the pan, the better it will hold together.
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Swap out dried fruit, nuts, or seeds based on your preferences.
- Use a Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife after thoroughly chilling the granola.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Sodium | 100mg |