Cherry Almond Granola Bars
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching or a midday pick-me-up, look no further than these Cherry Almond Granola Bars. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are a delightful blend of chewy dried cherries, crunchy almonds, and a touch of sweetness from honey and brown sugar. Not only are they easy to make, but they also make a fantastic addition to lunchboxes or as a post-workout treat. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cherry Almond Granola Bars are not only incredibly tasty, but they also provide a great source of energy. With a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, they keep you feeling satisfied without the sugar crash that often comes with store-bought snacks. Plus, they’re customizable! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or swap out the dried cherries for other fruits. You’ll find yourself reaching for these bars time and time again.
The Ingredient Lineup
To whip up a batch of these delightful Cherry Almond Granola Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups quick oats
- 1/2 cup crispy rice cereal
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds
- 5 oz dried cherries
These ingredients come together to create a chewy, satisfying snack that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Setup & Equipment
Before you start, gather the following equipment to make the process as smooth as possible:
- Mixing bowl – for combining your ingredients
- Spatula – for mixing and spreading the mixture
- 8×8-inch baking dish – for shaping the granola bars
- Parchment paper – to line the baking dish for easy removal
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
Having everything ready will ensure your granola bars come together seamlessly.
Mastering Cherry Almond Granola Bars: How-To
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started on making these delightful Cherry Almond Granola Bars.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Line your 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the granola bars out once they’re cooled.
Step 3: Melt the Wet Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, honey, and unsalted butter. Stir until everything is melted and well combined, creating a smooth mixture. This step infuses the bars with a rich flavor and helps bind the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats, crispy rice cereal, sliced almonds, and dried cherries. Stir this mixture together until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the melted wet ingredients over the dry mixture. Using your spatula, stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are fully coated. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Press the Mixture into the Baking Dish
Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using the back of your spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish. This step helps the bars hold their shape once baked.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the granola out and place it on a cutting board. Cut into bars of your desired size.
Substitutions by Category
If you’re missing some ingredients or want to customize your Cherry Almond Granola Bars, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- Sweeteners: You can replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Nuts: Use walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
- Fruits: Swap dried cherries for dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins.
- Grains: For a gluten-free version, ensure your oats and crispy rice cereal are certified gluten-free.
Feel free to experiment and find the combination that you love the most!
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues while making your Cherry Almond Granola Bars, here are some tips to help you out:
- If the bars crumble when cut, try pressing the mixture down more firmly before baking.
- For chewier bars, reduce the baking time slightly.
- If the bars are too sticky, ensure you measure the wet ingredients accurately.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
These tips will help you achieve perfect granola bars every time!
Prep Ahead & Store
One of the best things about these Cherry Almond Granola Bars is that they can be made ahead of time! Here’s how to prep and store them:
After cutting the bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for up to two weeks. Alternatively, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw before enjoying!
Cherry Almond Granola Bars FAQs
Can I make these granola bars nut-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the almond butter with sunflower seed butter or omit the nuts entirely. Just make sure to adjust the texture with additional oats or crispy rice cereal if needed.
What can I add for more flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the wet ingredients for an extra flavor boost.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats, but the texture of the bars may be slightly chewier. Just chop them a bit for a better consistency.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden brown, and the center should appear set but not overcooked. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.
If you love these Cherry Almond Granola Bars, you might also enjoy these recipes:
Bring It Home
These Cherry Almond Granola Bars are a delightful way to keep your energy up while satisfying your sweet tooth. They’re simple to make, packed with nutrition, and sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast option, a midday snack, or a post-workout treat, these bars will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a wholesome, homemade snack that you can feel good about!
Cherry Almond Granola Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line your 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, honey, and unsalted butter. Stir until melted and well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats, crispy rice cereal, sliced almonds, and dried cherries. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Pour the melted wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until fully coated.
- Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it firmly and evenly.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the dish cool completely, then lift the granola out using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks.
- Wrap individually and freeze for up to three months.
