Save Crunchy, chewy granola bars packed with roasted pumpkin seeds, tart cranberries, oats, and a touch of honey are perfect for a healthy snack on the go. These bars combine wholesome ingredients for a snack or breakfast option that is both satisfying and easy to make.
I first made these granola bars for a road trip and they quickly became a family favorite. Their chewy texture and nutty flavor make them popular in lunchboxes and as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), unsalted: 1 cup
- Dried cranberries, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Chopped almonds: 1/2 cup
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: 1/4 cup
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/3 cup
- Light brown sugar, packed: 1/4 cup
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Make Wet Mixture:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Shape Bars:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a spatula or another sheet of parchment to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Cut:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan (about 1 hour). Lift the granola slab out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 even bars with a sharp knife.
Save Making these granola bars is a fun activity with kids, as they love helping to mix and press the ingredients into the pan. Sharing them on a cozy weekend morning always brings smiles.
Required Tools
8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, saucepan, spatula, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains nuts (almonds), dairy (butter), and potential gluten in oats. Check ingredient labels for cross-contamination concerns.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 205 calories, 10 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 5 g protein
Save With simple swaps, you can make these bars vegan or gluten-free to suit any dietary need. Enjoy them as a wholesome snack any time of the day.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How do I achieve extra crunch in the bars?
Toasting oats and nuts for about 8 minutes before mixing enhances their crunchiness and adds a deeper flavor.
- → Can I replace pumpkin seeds with other nuts or seeds?
Yes, sunflower seeds are a great alternative, and dried cherries or blueberries can replace cranberries to vary flavors.
- → What is a suitable vegan glazing option?
Maple syrup combined with a plant-based butter substitute provides a delicious vegan alternative to honey and butter.
- → How should these bars be stored for freshness?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for up to two months.
- → Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats, though the base oats may contain gluten.