Maple Pecan Granola Bars Simple and Healthy Snack

Looking for a quick and healthy snack? You’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll show you how to make delicious Maple Pecan Granola Bars that are both simple and nutritious. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are perfect for busy days or a tasty treat. Discover the easy steps to whip up your homemade snack, plus tips on customizing flavors to suit your taste. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup pecans, chopped

– 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)

– 1/3 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/4 cup honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

– 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)

The star of this recipe is the maple syrup. It gives the bars a sweet and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans. You can switch almond butter for another nut butter, depending on your taste. The oats offer a chewy texture, making every bite satisfying.

When making these bars, consider adding dried fruit or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Dried cranberries add a tartness that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. Mini dark chocolate chips bring a touch of indulgence that kids and adults love.

Nutritional Information

Each bar has about 150 calories. They contain 4 grams of protein, 7 grams of fat, and 20 grams of carbohydrates. This makes them a great snack option for energy without a sugar crash.

Dietary Notes

You can easily make these bars vegan by using agave syrup instead of honey. For a nut-free version, swap nut butter with sunflower seed butter. To keep them gluten-free, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious and healthy snack!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

– In a large bowl, mix 2 cups rolled oats and 1 cup chopped pecans.

– Spread this mix on a baking sheet.

– Toast the mixture in the oven for about 10 minutes. Stir halfway through.

Combining Ingredients

– In a saucepan over low heat, combine:

– 1/2 cup almond butter

– 1/3 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– Stir the mix for 3-5 minutes until smooth.

– Remove the toasted oats and pecans from the oven and let cool slightly.

– Pour the warm almond butter mix over the oat and pecan mix.

– If desired, add 1/2 cup dried cranberries and 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips.

– Use a spatula to stir everything until well coated.

Baking Instructions

– Transfer the granola mix into the prepared baking pan.

– Press the mixture firmly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.

– Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges start to brown.

– Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

– Lift them out using the parchment paper and let cool completely.

– Once cool, cut into bars of your desired shape and size.

For the complete recipe details, check the [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Storage Tips

To keep your granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They stay good for about a week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun presentation, stack your granola bars on a wooden board. Add some extra pecans on top and drizzle with maple syrup. This gives a nice rustic look. You could also wrap each bar in parchment paper for easy snacks on the go. Pair these bars with yogurt or fresh fruit for a great breakfast or snack!

How to Perfect Your Recipe

A common mistake is not pressing the mixture firmly enough in the pan. This can lead to crumbly bars. Make sure to press it down well before baking. You can also customize your bars. Try adding different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to match your taste. If you love chocolate, toss in some dark chocolate chips. This will add richness and flavor to your bars! For the full recipe, check the section above.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can easily change the flavor of these bars. Adding different nuts or seeds makes a big difference. Try walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds. Each nut brings a unique taste and texture. You can also switch up the sweetener. Instead of maple syrup, use maple sugar or brown sugar for a new flavor.

Ingredient Swaps

If you want to use a different nut butter, go ahead! Peanut butter works well and adds a nice taste. You can even try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Changing sweeteners can also help. Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan choice. This keeps the bars tasty and suitable for everyone.

Dietary Adaptations

You can make these bars fit many diets. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free oats. This keeps the bars safe for those with gluten issues. If you prefer a keto diet, swap the oats with crushed nuts or seeds. This adds healthy fats and keeps carbs low. For a high-protein option, add protein powder to the mix. This boosts the protein and helps you feel full longer.

Purchasing Options

Store-Bought Alternatives

You can find many brands that sell maple pecan granola bars. Some popular options include Nature Valley, KIND, and Larabar. Each brand offers a unique flavor and texture. I recommend checking the ingredient list. Look for bars with whole ingredients and minimal added sugar. You can find these bars in grocery stores or online. Websites like Amazon and Thrive Market often have great selections.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Making your own granola bars has benefits. You control the ingredients, so you can skip preservatives. You can also adjust flavors to your taste. However, making them takes time and effort. Store-bought bars are quick and easy, but they might cost more. Homemade bars are cheaper in the long run, especially with bulk ingredients. You can make a large batch to save money and have snacks ready.

Best Brands to Try

Here are some brands you might enjoy:

– KIND: Known for its crunchy texture and clean ingredients.

– Nature Valley: Offers a variety of flavors but often has added sugars.

– RXBAR: Great for protein, but check for nut allergies.

– Larabar: A simple ingredient list, perfect for a quick snack.

These brands balance great taste and nutrition. When shopping, read the labels for the best choice.

FAQs

How long do homemade granola bars last?

Homemade granola bars can last up to two weeks. Store them in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool, dry place. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.

Can I make these bars without nuts?

Yes, you can make these bars nut-free. Use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin instead of nuts. You can also use seed butter, like sunflower seed butter, in place of almond butter. This gives the bars a similar texture and flavor.

Can I substitute maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup. Honey will add a nice sweetness and stickiness. Agave syrup is a great vegan option. Keep in mind that different sweeteners can change the texture, so adjust accordingly.

Are granola bars healthy?

Granola bars can be healthy. They provide fiber from oats and nuts. They also contain healthy fats and protein. However, watch for added sugars and unhealthy fats in store-bought versions. Always read the labels to make smart choices.

How can I make these vegan?

To make these granola bars vegan, use agave syrup instead of honey. Ensure your nut butter is vegan too. Many brands offer vegan options. You can also avoid adding chocolate chips if they contain dairy.

This guide covered key ingredients and steps for making delicious granola bars. You learned about storage tips, serving ideas, and how to customize your recipe. Remember, you can easily swap ingredients to fit your needs, whether it’s vegan, nut-free, or gluten-free.

Making your own granola bars can save money and meet your taste. Get creative with flavors, and enjoy your tasty, healthy snacks!

Maple Pecan Granola Bars

Discover the perfect healthy snack with these easy Maple Pecan Granola Bars! Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, pecans, and sweet maple syrup, these nutritious bars are ideal for busy days or as a tasty treat. Learn how to customize them with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy a deliciously satisfying snack that everyone will love. Click through to explore the full recipe and start making your own homemade granola bars today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup pecans, chopped

1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)

1/3 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

 

Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Toast the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped pecans. Spread this mixture on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant.

Combine Wet Ingredients: While the oats and pecans are toasting, in a saucepan over low heat, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 3-5 minutes.

Mix Everything Together: Remove the toasted oats and pecans from the oven and let them cool slightly. Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the oat and pecan mix. If you’re using dried cranberries and chocolate chips, add them in at this point. Use a spatula to stir everything together until well coated.

Press and Bake: Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using the back of a spatula or your hands (dampened to prevent sticking), press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges start to brown.

Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang. Let cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, cut into bars of your desired shape and size.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

- Presentation Tips: Stack the granola bars in a neat pile on a wooden serving board, and garnish with a few extra pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for a rustic look. You can also wrap individual bars in parchment paper for a lovely grab-and-go snack option. Enjoy!