Are you on the lookout for a delicious yet nutritious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt? Look no further than these Healthy Chewy Coconut Date Granola Bars! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, pitted dates, and shredded coconut, these bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for on-the-go munching. Imagine biting into a chewy, flavorful bar that fuels your day with energy and keeps cravings at bay. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy a healthy treat that your whole family will love. Ready to elevate your snack game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a food processor, pulse the pitted dates until they form a smooth, sticky paste. If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before processing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add the date paste, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well using a spatula or wooden spoon until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture begins to stick together.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and the top feels firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block of granola out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Tips
- Soften Your Dates: If your pitted dates are a bit dry, soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes will make them easier to blend into a smooth paste. This step ensures a better texture for your granola bars.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize your bars by adding your favorite nuts or seeds. Pecans, cashews, or even sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch and extra nutrition.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, make sure to press it down firmly. A compact layer will help the bars hold together better once baked.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Depending on your oven, they may need a few extra minutes or may be done a bit sooner. Look for golden edges and a firm top.
- Clean Cuts: For perfectly shaped bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This prevents the sticky mixture from clumping on the blade and ensures neat slices.
- Storage Tips: To keep your granola bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for up to a week—ideal for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
