Grown-Up Granola Bars are a 'bar' above the rest! They are nutrient rich, delicious and make a portable, on-the-go snack for kids of all ages.
Here in our kitchen we like to keep a steady supply of our "Grown-up Granola Bars" on hand at all times. I initially began making these for Stephen back when we were dating. I don't want to say it's what sealed the deal for him, but.... Different from store bought bars, we've upgraded our bars to be chock full of nutritious ingredients designed to promote good health and help keep you satisfied longer. Basically, a win-win.
This recipe allows you to mix and match your favorite "add ins" depending on your preference week to week or, let's be honest, based on what you already have on hand. This is a simple recipe that your kiddos will love to make with you!
Nutrition Notes: Walnuts, walnut oil, and flaxseeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which may help reduce arterial inflammation and promote healthy cholesterol levels. In infants, omega 3s are important in the development of brain and nerve function. These bars also include good sources of iron, vitamin E, B vitamins including folate, and soluble fiber.
Be sure to grab one before they're all gone!
Grown-Up Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ⅓ cup whole wheat flour can sub with GF
- ⅓ cup ground flaxseeds
- ⅓ cup wheat germ
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup loose brown sugar optional
- ½ cup walnut, avocado, or other mild tasting oil
- ½ cup honey
- 1 egg
Add-Ins (You pick up to 1 cup TOTAL) - Favorite Combos Include:
- walnuts and chocolate chips
- cashews and dried apricot pieces
- dried cherries and pistachios
- unsweetened coconut flakes and dried cranberries
- pecans and dried blueberries
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients, including add-ins. Mix until well combined.
- Next, add in your oil, honey, vanilla, and egg and gently fold until fully incorporated. If mixture looks too dry, add additional oil and honey, 1 tsp. each at a time.
- Pour mixture into an oiled 8x8 baking pan. Using a spoon (or your hands), firmly press the mixture down evenly into the pan.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 25-28 minutes. Edges should be turning slightly golden. Place pan on a cooling rack for at least 10 minutes prior to slicing.
- Slice into 16 - 2"x2" bars. Store in the fridge.
Nutrition
Looking for more healthy, portable snacks? You'll love our Copycat Homemade Perfect Bars and Homemade Turkey Jerky!
Are there alternative ingredients one could use? Like replace the flaxseeds, honey etc?
Hi Erika, yes! For honey you could replace any preferred liquid sweetener (maple, agave, etc.) with great results. The flax can also be replaced or simply omitted altogether if desired. When we've been out of flax in the past we've increased the wheat germ by a few tbsp. We hope you enjoy!
I never made this type of bars, so I was not sure what to expect. They turned out so yummy. Slightly crunchy outside, soft inside. Super flavorful! I used almond flour instead of whole wheat flour, added more ground flaxseeds since I did not have wheat germ, added chocolate chips + fresh lemon zest + few chopped prunes, used maple syrup instead of honey and just a touch of brown sugar. Perfection! Thank you!
I just finished one of these. My wife makes these on the reg.
Oh wow, that means so much! Thank you!
Just made these today and love them! Couldn't be happier about having a carb count for these too.
Hi Sophie! So glad you love them! 🙂