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How to Make No-Bake Granola Bars

Granola bars are a versatile and nutritious snack, perfect for on-the-go munching, post-workout refuelling, or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up. Making your own no-bake granola bars at home gives you full control over the ingredients, ensuring that you create a healthy treat tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, they are quick and easy to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe to help you whip up a batch of delicious no-bake granola bars.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 250g rolled oats
• 100g nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
• 125g nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or any other of your choice)
• 100g honey or maple syrup
• 50g dried fruit (such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins)
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon for added flavour

Optional Mix-Ins:

• Chocolate chips or chunks
• Coconut flakes
• Ground flaxseed or chia seeds
• Additional spices like nutmeg or ginger

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Tin

Begin by lining a square or rectangular baking tin (about 20cm x 20cm or 25cm x 15cm) with baking parchment. This will make it much easier to remove the granola bars once they are set.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts or seeds, dried fruit, and a pinch of salt. If you’re using any optional mix-ins, now’s the time to add them too. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Gently warm the mixture in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, if necessary. This will make it easier to combine with the dry ingredients. If you’re using vanilla extract or cinnamon, add them to this mixture as well.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm nut butter-honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are coated evenly. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together when pressed.

Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Tin

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking tin and use the spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly. The more compact the mixture is, the better your bars will hold together once set.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the tin with cling film or foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to set. This will help the bars firm up, making them easier to cut and eat.

Step 7: Cut into Bars

Once chilled and set, remove the granola mixture from the tin using the edges of the baking parchment. Place it on a cutting board and cut into bars or squares, depending on your preference.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Store your no-bake granola bars in an airtight container in the fridge; they can last for up to a week. Alternatively, you can wrap each bar individually in cling film or parchment paper for a convenient snack on the go.

Customisation Tips

The beauty of homemade granola bars is their flexibility. Feel free to mix and match the ingredients according to your preferences. You could go for a chocolate-chip version, incorporate some spicy ginger, or even add a layer of dark chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Making no-bake granola bars at home is not only easy but also a fun way to experiment with flavours and textures. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a wholesome treat that is perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy your homemade granola bars!

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