Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, chopped dates, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey and coconut oil over low heat until melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes 12-16 bars
Nutritional information:
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
Calories: 270
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of chopped nuts you like in this recipe.
- If you don't have dates, you can use raisins or dried cranberries instead.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
- Butter can be used instead of coconut oil.
Variations:
- Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Use different spices, such as ginger or cardamom, for a different flavor profile.
- Add dried fruit, such as apricots or cherries, for extra sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Press the granola mixture down firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into them to prevent them from falling apart.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature, but you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the bars on a platter with fresh fruit for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some extra shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top of the bars for a pretty garnish.
Pairings:
These granola bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These bars are a complete snack on their own, but you can serve them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a more substantial meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bars are too crumbly, try adding more honey or coconut oil to the mixture before baking.
- If the bars are too soft, bake them for a few extra minutes until they are golden brown.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the bars in an airtight container to prevent them from going stale or getting moldy.
Food history:
Granola bars have been around since the late 1800s, when they were first created as a health food for hikers and campers. They became popular in the 1970s as a convenient snack for busy people.
Flavor profiles:
These granola bars are sweet and nutty, with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these bars for breakfast or as a midday snack. They are perfect for taking on the go or packing in a lunchbox.
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