Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula

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 mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, and salt.

3. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth.

4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly with a spatula.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Let the granola bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 9-12 granola bars

Nutritional information:
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
Calories: 240
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 18g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be substituted for peanut butter.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be substituted for honey.
- Chopped almonds or cashews can be substituted for chopped peanuts.
- Dried cranberries or raisins can be substituted for mini chocolate chips.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of chia seeds or flaxseed meal to the oat mixture for added nutrition.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled granola bars for extra chocolate flavor.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon to the oat mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a spatula to press the granola mixture firmly into the baking dish to ensure the bars hold together.
- Let the granola bars cool completely before cutting into squares to prevent them from falling apart.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Storage instructions:
Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Reheating instructions:
Granola bars can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the granola bars on a platter with fresh fruit and a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips on top of the granola bars for added texture and flavor.

Pairings:
Enjoy the granola bars with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a satisfying snack.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the granola bars with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a balanced snack.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the granola bars are too crumbly, try adding more peanut butter or honey to the mixture before baking.

Food safety advice:
Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to prevent spoilage.

Food history:
Granola bars were first invented in the late 1800s as a health food for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Flavor profiles:
The peanut butter and chocolate chips add a sweet and nutty flavor to the granola bars, while the shredded coconut and chopped peanuts add a crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:
Enjoy the granola bars as a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a midday snack to curb hunger cravings.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Salty, Crunchy