Homemade Almond Butter Granola Bars: A Nutritious & Energy-Boosting Snack

These nutrient-dense, naturally sweetened granola bars are easy to make, high in fiber, and packed with healthy fats. With no refined sugars and only wholesome ingredients, they’re the perfect grab-and-go snack for sustained energy.

• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 10 bars

Ingredients

1. 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats (gluten-free)
2. ½ cup (120 g) almond butter
3. ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup or honey
4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
5. ½ tsp sea salt
6. ½ tsp cinnamon
7. ¼ cup (40 g) chopped almonds
8. ¼ cup (40 g) dark chocolate chips (optional)

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp melted dark chocolate (for drizzle, optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped almonds

Optional Additions:

1. 2 tbsp chia seeds (for fiber)
2. ¼ cup shredded coconut (for texture)
3. ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (for sweetness)

Substitutions:

• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
• Extra protein: Add 1 tbsp hemp seeds or protein powder.
• Sweeter version: Increase maple syrup to ⅓ cup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture:
   • In a saucepan over low heat, warm almond butter and maple syrup, stirring until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped almonds, and optional add-ins.
3. Mix & Press:
   • Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan.
4. Chill & Set:
   • Refrigerate for 30 minutes, then slice into bars.
5. Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
   • Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over bars.
   • Sprinkle with chopped almonds for extra crunch.
6. Enjoy or Store:
   • Serve immediately or store for later snacking!

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g

Vitamins & Benefits

• Almond Butter: Rich in healthy fats and vitamin E.
• Oats: High in fiber for digestion and sustained energy.
• Dark Chocolate: Provides antioxidants and iron.

Did you know? Almond butter contains more vitamin E than peanut butter, making it great for skin health and immunity!

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before eating.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch for easy snacking all week!

FAQ

❓ Can I bake these bars instead of chilling them?
✔️ Yes! Bake at 160°C (325°F) for 10–12 minutes for a firmer texture.

❓ What’s the best way to make these crunchier?
✔️ Add more chopped almonds or lightly toast the oats before mixing.

❓ How do I make them softer?
✔️ Add an extra 1 tbsp almond butter or maple syrup.