Teresa's Recipes
Vegan Granola Bars
These delightful vegan granola bars are a wholesome blend of crunchy oats, nutty flavors, and chewy dried fruits, all sweetened with rich maple syrup. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a post-workout treat, they offer a burst of energy in every bite. Enjoy these bars as a convenient on-the-go option that not only satisfies your cravings but also nourishes your body with natural ingredients. Granola bars have been a staple of outdoor adventurers and health enthusiasts since the late 19th century, evolving from simple baked oats to the delicious varieties we enjoy today.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Rolled oats
- 1 cup, chopped Mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1 cup, chopped Dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, apricots, raisins)
- 1/2 cup Peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/2 cup Maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Snack
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 24g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, and dried fruit. Stir well to distribute evenly.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the maple syrup, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt over low heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, stir until all the oats, nuts, and fruit are thoroughly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to ensure the bars hold together once baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or rectangles.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the nuts and dried fruits to your liking. Try adding seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for extra crunch and nutrition.
- For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips after baking.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate to extend their freshness.