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Granola bars have surged in popularity as a go-to snack option for busy individuals and families alike. These convenient bars provide a quick and nutritious bite, perfect for breakfast on the go, a midday energy boost, or a post-workout refuel. With the right ingredients, granola bars can be packed with essential nutrients, making them a healthier alternative to many processed snacks.

Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars

Discover the joy of making your own Crunchy Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars, the perfect snack for busy lifestyles. With a delightful crunchy exterior and chewy center, these bars combine rolled oats, nuts, dried apples, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. They’re not just tasty; they’re packed with nutrients to fuel your day. Ideal for breakfast on the go or a midday treat, customize them to suit your tastes. Embrace homemade snacks that are both delicious and nutritious!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsalted nuts (such as walnuts or almonds), chopped

1 cup dried apples, finely chopped

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (your choice)

1/2 cup creamy almond butter or peanut butter

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for added sweetness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring that the paper hangs over the edges for easy lifting of the bars later on.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, finely chopped dried apples, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gently stir with a wooden spoon to ensure all ingredients are well distributed and evenly mixed.

      Heat the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and creamy almond butter (or peanut butter). Stir the mixture continuously until it melts together and becomes smooth. Once combined, remove from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract.

        Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring that all dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture.

          Incorporate Chocolate Chips: If you are using mini chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture now for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite.

            Press into the Dish: Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula. To compact the mixture, press it down firmly with the back of the spatula or your hands (consider dampening your hands slightly to prevent sticking).

              Bake: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars, looking for a golden-brown color at the edges to indicate that they are done.

                Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the granola to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the granola slab out of the pan and transfer it to a cutting board to cool completely.

                  Cut into Bars: After the slab has cooled, slice it into 12 equal bars or to your preferred size. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: For a lovely touch, wrap individual bars in parchment paper and tie them with twine for a delightful homemade snack gift or a portable treat on the go!