Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars

Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars

There are plenty of granola bar options at the grocery store, but they're also easy (and often healthier) to make at home. Feel free to vary the add-ins to your taste, swapping 2 cups of any combination of small (or chopped) dried fruit, nuts, seeds and/or chocolate chips for the dried cranberries and nuts in this version. We tested several sticky sweeteners, including maple syrup and honey, but found brown rice syrup held the bars together the best.

Ingredients

  • old-fashioned rolled oats
    3 c
  • crispy brown rice cereal
    1 c
  • dried cranberries
    1 c
  • almonds

    toasted and chopped

    ½ c
  • pecans

    toasted and chopped

    ½ c
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • 6668653488 cup brown rice syrup or light corn syrup
    ⅝
  • smooth almond butter
    ½ c
  • vanilla extract
    1 tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra parchment hanging over two sides. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.

  2. 2

    Combine oats, rice cereal, cranberries, almonds, pecans and salt in a large bowl.

  3. 3

    Combine rice syrup (or corn syrup), almond butter and vanilla in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds (or heat in a saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute). Add to the dry ingredients and stir until evenly combined. Transfer to the prepared pan and firmly press into the pan with the back of a spatula.

  4. 4

    For chewier bars, bake until barely starting to color around the edge and still soft in the middle, 20 to 25 minutes. For crunchier bars, bake until golden brown around the edge and somewhat firm in the middle, 30 to 35 minutes. (Both will still be soft when warm and firm up as they cool.)

  5. 5

    Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then using the parchment to help you, lift out of the pan onto a cutting board (it will still be soft). Cut into 24 bars, then let cool completely without separating the bars, about 30 minutes more. Once cool, separate into bars.

Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars

Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars

161 cal

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About this Recipe

Tired of lackluster store-bought options? Discover the joy and simplicity of crafting your own delicious Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars at home. This recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to pre-packaged snacks, delivering fresh, wholesome goodness you can feel great about. You'll love how easy it is to prepare a batch for your week ahead.Why This Recipe Works This recipe truly shines because of its expertly chosen ingredients designed for optimal texture and flavor. We specifically found that brown rice syrup provides superior binding, ensuring your homemade granola bars hold together beautifully without crumbling. The thoughtful combination of old-fashioned rolled oats and crispy brown rice cereal creates a satisfying chew and a delightful crunch that sets these bars apart.

What to Expect Prepare your palate for a delightful interplay of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors with every bite of these Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars. You'll experience the satisfying chewiness of the oats and plump dried cranberries, perfectly balanced by the subtle crunch of toasted almonds and pecans. The addition of crispy brown rice cereal adds an unexpected, airy texture. These bars offer a wholesome, energizing experience, perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a midday pick-me-up, providing a good source of fuel with 161 calories per serving.

Customization & Variations One of the best advantages of making granola bars at home is the freedom to tailor them to your personal taste. Feel empowered to swap out the dried cranberries and almonds for 2 cups of any combination of your favorite small (or chopped) dried fruit, nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips. Consider dried apricots, sunflower seeds, or a swirl of dark chocolate chips for exciting new flavor profiles.

Serving & Context These Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars are an excellent choice for a quick, nourishing breakfast on busy mornings or a convenient snack to power you through your day. They're perfect for packing into lunchboxes, taking on hikes, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee for a satisfying start.

Frequently Asked Questions