Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup kefir
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and dried fruit.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey, coconut oil, kefir, and salt over low heat until the coconut oil is melted and the mixture is smooth.
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 it down firmly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
8. Once cooled, lift the granola bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into bars.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 8-10 bars
Nutritional information:
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
Calories: 280
Total fat: 15g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 75mg
Total carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any combination of nuts and dried fruit that you prefer.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
- Melted butter can be used instead of coconut oil.
- Yogurt can be used instead of kefir.
Variations:
- Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor.
- Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
- Add seeds such as chia or flax for added nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Press the granola mixture down firmly in the baking dish to ensure the bars hold together.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting 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 served at room temperature but can be warmed 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 chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the bars for added texture.
Pairings:
These bars pair well with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the bars with fresh fruit or a side salad for a balanced snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bars are too crumbly, try adding more honey or coconut oil to the mixture.
- If the bars are too soft, try baking them for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the bars in an airtight container to prevent them from spoiling.
Food history:
Granola bars were first invented in the late 1800s as a way to provide a portable and nutritious snack for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Flavor profiles:
These bars have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of tanginess from the kefir.
Serving suggestions:
These bars make a great on-the-go breakfast or snack.
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