Vegan Granola Bar Recipe

Rolled oats: These are whole oats that have been steamed and flattened. They provide a chewy texture and are a great source of fiber.

Chopped mixed nuts: A combination of nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans adds crunch and protein to the bars.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that binds the ingredients together and adds a rich, caramel-like flavor.

Coconut oil: This oil helps to bind the ingredients and adds a subtle coconut flavor. It also solidifies at room temperature, helping the bars to set.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bars.

Dried cranberries: These add a tart sweetness and chewy texture, balancing the flavors of the nuts and oats.

When pressing the granola mixture into the baking tray, use a piece of parchment paper to cover the surface and press down firmly with a flat-bottomed object, like a measuring cup. This ensures an even, compact layer, which helps the granola bars hold together better once baked and cooled.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are also gluten-free, making them a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

• chopped mixed nuts - Substitute with seeds mix: A mix of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds can offer a similar crunch and nutritional profile, suitable for those with nut allergies.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a different flavor profile.

• melted coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for its healthy fats and mild flavor, although it may slightly alter the taste of the granola bars.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor that can add a unique twist to the granola bars.

• dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries offer a similar tartness and chewy texture, making them a great alternative to dried cranberries.

• Allow the granola bars to cool completely before storing. This ensures they maintain their shape and texture.
• Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For longer storage, place the granola bars in the refrigerator. This can extend their shelf life to about two weeks.
• To freeze, wrap each granola bar individually in parchment paper or plastic wrap. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped granola bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the granola bars at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave for a few seconds until they reach the desired consistency.
• For an extra touch, you can warm the granola bars in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the granola bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a granola bar on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 10 seconds if needed.
  5. Allow it to cool for a moment before eating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the granola bars on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover them with a piece of aluminum foil.
  4. Heat for about 8-10 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Let them cool slightly before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Place the granola bars in the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat.
  4. Warm for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the granola bars in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overheat.
  4. Allow them to cool for a moment before eating.

• Oven: Used to bake the granola bars at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking tray: A flat, rectangular pan used to hold the granola mixture while it bakes.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking tray with this prevents the granola bars from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the rolled oats and chopped nuts.

• Small saucepan: Used to heat and melt the maple syrup and coconut oil together.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and for pressing the mixture firmly into the baking tray.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring out the rolled oats, chopped nuts, maple syrup, and coconut oil.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like the vanilla extract.

• Knife: Needed to chop the mixed nuts and to cut the cooled granola into bars.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the nuts.

• Cooling rack: Allows the baked granola to cool evenly before cutting into bars.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop nuts and mix oats using a food processor.

Microwave the wet mix: Heat the maple syrup and coconut oil in the microwave to save time.

Line the tray in advance: Prepare your baking tray with parchment paper before starting.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and freeze extra granola bars for future use.