Are granola bars actually healthy?

Homemade granola bars can be a healthy snack option, especially compared to many store-bought varieties. They provide whole grains, fiber, and healthy fats. However, it's important to be mindful of the sugar content. Making them at home allows you to control the amount of added sweeteners. For insights into portion sizes and nutrition, visit the Healthline guide on granola bar nutrition .

What makes granola bars stick together?

The "stickiness" in granola bars comes from the sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or brown rice syrup. These ingredients act as a binder, holding the oats, nuts, and other ingredients together. Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan also helps with cohesion.

Is strawberry granola good for you?

Adding fresh strawberries to your granola boosts its nutritional value. Strawberries are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Homemade strawberry granola is a much healthier choice than processed granola bars, which often contain added sugars and artificial ingredients.

What are the ingredients in made good strawberry granola bar?

Made Good strawberry granola bars typically contain ingredients like oats, dried strawberries, brown rice syrup, sunflower seed butter, and various other ingredients. While convenient, these bars often have more processed ingredients than a homemade version, which allows you to focus on whole, natural ingredients.

These strawberry granola bars are delicious on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a variety of other foods. They're great with a dollop of yogurt, a side of fresh fruit, or a glass of cold milk. They also make a fantastic addition to lunchboxes or hiking packs. Try serving them alongside this crispy air fryer butternut squash for a balanced and flavorful meal. To store your granola bars, let them cool completely before cutting them into bars or squares. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming too sticky. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Strawberry Granola Bars: 5-Ingredient Delicious Snack

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick-cooking)
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash, hull, and dice strawberries. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain excess liquid.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, combine diced strawberries, honey, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make lifting the bars easier.

5. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is firm. Insert a toothpick into the center to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, the bars are ready.

8. Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars or squares.

Notes

See ingredient substitutions for variations based on dietary needs or preferences. Press mixture firmly into the pan for best results. Watch carefully while baking to prevent burning. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for longer storage, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Author: Emily
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar

Keywords: strawberry granola bars, granola bars, strawberry snacks, healthy snacks, breakfast bars, homemade granola, easy recipe, quick snack, kids snacks, on-the-go snacks