Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars

Looking for a delicious, healthy snack that you can whip up in no time? Look no further than these Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars! Packed with wholesome ingredients and a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, these granola bars are an ideal treat for breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or even a post-workout energy boost. With just the right amount of chewiness and crunch, they’re sure to become a staple in your snack rotation. Plus, you can feel great about making them yourself, knowing exactly what goes into each bar.

Why This Recipe Works

Homemade granola bars are not only customizable but also allow you to control the sweetness and texture. This Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars recipe combines the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with the richness of almond butter, creating a delightful flavor profile. The addition of crispy rice cereal and flaked coconut gives these bars a satisfying crunch, while the dried blueberries add a burst of fruity goodness. With a simple step-by-step process, you can easily create a batch that rivals any store-bought option.

Ingredient Notes

• 3 oz pitted Medjool dates: These dates provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Make sure they are pitted for easy blending.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted butter helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar: This adds sweetness and moisture. The brown sugar gives the bars a nice caramel flavor.
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons honey: Honey not only sweetens but also helps to hold the bars together.
• 1 cup unsalted creamy almond butter: This contributes to the nutty flavor and provides healthy fats.
• 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Rolled oats provide a hearty base and add fiber.
• 2 cups crispy rice cereal: This adds crunch and lightness to the bars.
• 1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut: Coconut adds flavor and texture. Opt for unsweetened to keep the sugar content lower.
• 1 cup coarsely chopped almonds: Almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• Heaping 1 cup dried blueberries: These add natural sweetness and antioxidants. Feel free to use other dried fruits if preferred.

Cook’s Kit

• Mixing Bowl: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
• Baking Dish: A parchment-lined 9×9-inch square dish works well for easy removal of the bars.
• Food Processor: To blend the Medjool dates into a smooth paste.
• Rubber Spatula: For mixing and spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars, Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Start by placing the pitted Medjool dates in a food processor. Blend until they form a smooth paste. If they are too dry, you can add a little warm water to help them blend more easily.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, honey, and almond butter. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dates

Add the date paste to the wet mixture and stir until well combined. This will add natural sweetness and a lovely texture to the bars.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, unsweetened flaked coconut, chopped almonds, and salt. Ensure that everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Finally, fold in the dried blueberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the granola bar mixture into the dish and use a rubber spatula to press it down evenly. Make sure it’s tightly packed for the best texture.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the granola bars for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. This cooling time helps the bars hold their shape.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Spring: Swap dried blueberries for fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Summer: Add some chopped dried apricots or peaches for a summery flavor.
• Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the mix for a seasonal touch.
• Winter: Use dried cranberries and a hint of cinnamon for a cozy flavor profile.

Cook’s Commentary

These Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars are incredibly versatile. Feel free to play around with the nuts and dried fruits you have on hand. Not only do they make a great snack, but they also provide sustained energy throughout the day. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different nut butters for a unique flavor twist!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you prefer, these bars can also be individually wrapped and frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Are there any substitutes for the crispy rice cereal?

If you don’t have crispy rice cereal, you can use puffed quinoa, granola, or even crushed graham crackers for a different texture.

Can I make these granola bars vegan?

Yes! To make these bars vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.

How do I know when the granola bars are done baking?

The granola bars should be golden brown around the edges and slightly firm to the touch. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit soft when you first take them out of the oven.

More from the Kitchen

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Vegan Chocolate Mousse
• Blueberry Muffins

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the recipe for these delectable Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re snacking on them during a busy workday or enjoying them as a post-workout treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you fueled. Happy cooking!