All Natural Granola Bars Recipes
There has been a growing trend towards all natural foods, as people become more conscious of their health and the impact of their food choices on the environment. One food item that has gained popularity in recent years is all natural granola bars. These bars are made from natural ingredients and free from preservatives and artificial additives. If you are looking for a healthy snack option or a replacement for processed breakfast bars, here are some things to know about all natural granola bars and their recipes.
What are all natural granola bars?
All natural granola bars are snacks made from carefully selected natural ingredients such as oats, nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and natural sweeteners. These bars are perfect for those who want a healthy and wholesome snack option that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They also have the added advantage of being cheaper and tastier than processed bars that come in shiny packages.
Ingredients in all natural granola bars
The key to making all natural granola bars is selecting the right ingredients to use. Here are some of the common ingredients found in these bars:
- Rolled oats: These are the base ingredient of most granola bars. They provide fiber, protein, and a nutty flavor that complements other ingredients.
- Nuts: Almonds, pecans, and walnuts are common nuts used in granola bars. They provide a crunchy texture as well as protein and healthy fats.
- Seeds: Sunflower, pumpkin, and chia seeds are excellent additions to granola bars. They provide extra crunch and are packed with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
- Dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, and apricots are examples of fruits that can be added to granola bars. They provide natural sweetness and are a good source of fiber and vitamins.
- Natural sweeteners: Honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar can be used to sweeten granola bars without adding any artificial flavors or colors.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be added to the mix for added flavor.
Advantages of all natural granola bars
There are several advantages to making and consuming all natural granola bars:
- They are healthier: All natural granola bars are free from artificial additives that can be harmful to the body. They are also packed with nutrients that can benefit the body.
- They last longer: Processed bars can go stale quickly due to the preservatives they contain. All natural granola bars made at home can last up to a week or more if stored properly.
- They are customizable: Making your own granola bars allows you to tailor the ingredients to your preference. You can add or omit any ingredient you like.
- They are budget-friendly: Making granola bars at home is cheaper than buying processed bars from the store.
How to make all natural granola bars
Making all natural granola bars is easy, and you can customize the recipe to suit your taste buds. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of rolled oats
- ½ cup of chopped nuts
- ½ cup of seeds
- ½ cup of dried fruits
- ¼ cup of natural sweetener
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F or 180°C.
2. Mix the oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
3. Heat the natural sweetener in a small saucepan until it becomes liquid.
4. Add the liquid sweetener to the bowl and mix well until everything is coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and press it down firmly with a fork.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting into bars.
8. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Conclusion
All natural granola bars are a tasty and healthy snack option that is easy to make at home. They are perfect for people who are health-conscious and want to avoid processed snacks. With a basic recipe and a few ingredients, you can create your customized bars that suit your taste buds. Moreover, they are budget-friendly, customizable, and last longer than processed granola bars. So, give them a try and enjoy your healthy snacking journey!
Granola bars are a perfect choice for hikers, athletes, and anyone who needs a nutritious and satisfying snack on-the-go. With the trend of healthy eating, people nowadays prefer homemade granola bars to store-bought ones. Making homemade granola bars is pretty simple, and you can customize them based on your preferences. In this article, we’ll give you valuable tips to make all-natural granola bars recipes that are both healthy and delicious.
Choosing the right ingredients:
The first step to making all-natural granola bars is choosing the right ingredients. Try to choose whole-grain cereals, nuts, and seeds, as they are a rich source of fiber and protein. Using organic ingredients is also a good idea to avoid harmful chemicals and pesticides. Use a mixture of dry ingredients, such as rolled oats, seeds, nuts, and dried fruits, and set them aside in a large bowl.
Binding ingredients:
Choosing the right binding ingredients is essential to ensure that your granola bars hold together. Some common binding agents used in granola bars include honey, maple syrup, peanut butter, almond butter, and dates. You can also use healthy oils, such as coconut or olive oil, to keep the ingredients together. Make sure to use enough binding ingredients to hold the dry ingredients together but be careful not to overdo it; otherwise, your bars might become too sticky or too sweet.
Add-ins:
Add-ins can take your granola bars to the next level. Add-ins are ingredients that add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to your granola bars. Some popular add-ins include chocolate chips, coconut flakes, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. You can add these ingredients to the dry ingredients or sprinkle them on top of the mixture before baking. Make sure to choose healthy and natural add-ins that complement the flavor of your granola bars.
Baking:
Baking is the final step in making granola bars. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 325°F. Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish or sheet, and press it down firmly using a spatula. This will help your bars hold together better. Bake the mixture for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Allow the mixture to cool completely before cutting it into bars or squares, or else it might crumble.
Storing:
Storing your granola bars is crucial to keep them fresh and crispy. It's best to store them in an airtight container, such as a mason jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking to each other. If you want to keep your granola bars for an extended period, you can freeze them for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before eating.
Conclusion:
Making all-natural granola bars is a healthy and fun way to snack. By following these tips, you can create delicious and nutritious granola bars that are free from artificial preservatives, additives, and high-fructose corn syrup. Experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and textures until you find your perfect combination. With homemade granola bars, you can have a healthy snack anytime, anywhere.
