Save Crunchy, chewy granola bars packed with roasted pumpkin seeds, tart cranberries, oats, and a touch of honey—perfect for a healthy snack on the go.
I remember making these bars for my kids' hiking trip, and everyone loved the sweet-tart flavor combination along with the satisfying crunch from pumpkin seeds and almonds.
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
- Preheat and prepare 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.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Prepare 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.
- Mix and coat:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Press into pan:
- 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:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan (about 1 hour).
- Slice:
- Lift the granola slab out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 even bars with a sharp knife.
Save My family loves grabbing one of these bars before heading out for soccer practice or school mornings—they're both convenient and nourishing.
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 (oats). May contain traces of other allergens depending on ingredient sourcing. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 205, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 5 g per serving.
Save Enjoy a homemade granola bar as a smart snack or breakfast any day of the week. Their chewy, crunchy texture makes them irresistible!
Common recipe questions
- → Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup works well as a vegan-friendly alternative and adds a slightly different sweetness to the bars.
- → What is the best way to store these bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to two months to maintain freshness.
- → Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?
Absolutely. Walnuts, pecans, or cashews can be used to adjust flavor and texture according to preference.
- → Is it necessary to toast the oats and nuts?
Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and crunch but is optional. Toast for about 8 minutes before mixing if desired.
- → Are these bars gluten-free?
They contain oats, which may have gluten traces unless certified gluten-free oats are used. Choose gluten-free oats if needed.