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Homemade Maple Cinnamon Granola Bar

These homemade granola bars offer a warm, cozy flavor with a satisfying chew and crunch, perfect for on-the-go snacking or lunchboxes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats Choose fresh oats for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped raw almonds Can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or cashews.
  • 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds Can replace with sunflower seeds.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon For added warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt Balances the sweetness.
Binder Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup Or honey as a substitute.
  • 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter Not natural style for a smoother bind.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Adds richness.
Mix-ins
  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins Can substitute with chopped dried apricots, cherries, or dates.
  • optional a drizzle of melted dark chocolate Optional garnish before chilling.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Spread the oats, chopped almonds, and pumpkin seeds evenly on the sheet and toast for 10 to 12 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the cinnamon and salt.
  4. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Making the Binder
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, peanut butter, and butter.
  2. Stir constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until melted and beginning to bubble at the edges, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
Mixing and Pressing
  1. Pour the binder over the toasted oat mixture, add dried cranberries or raisins, and stir until well coated.
  2. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly with the bottom of a measuring cup or parchment paper.
Chilling
  1. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top if using, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Serving
  1. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, cut into 12 bars, and store in an airtight container.
Storage
  1. Keep bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze separately for up to 3 months.

Notes

These bars are great for various occasions, and they can be customized with preferred ingredients for personal taste.