Description
These Crunchy Granola Heart Bars are a delicious and wholesome snack made with rolled oats, almonds, honey, and coconut oil, baked to golden perfection. Topped with melted dark chocolate and dried cranberries, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, ideal for a healthy treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of bars.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped almonds thoroughly to distribute the nuts evenly.
- Heat wet ingredients: In a small saucepan, warm the honey and melted coconut oil over low heat until fully combined and liquid. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavor.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the warm honey and oil mixture over the oats and almonds, stirring well to coat all the dry ingredients evenly for a uniform texture.
- Press mixture into pan: Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer, pressing down firmly to compact the granola mixture and help it hold together after baking.
- Bake granola bars: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the granola turns a golden brown color and develops a crunchy texture. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Cut into shapes: Once completely cooled and set, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the granola into fun, festive heart bars.
- Add toppings: Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the shaped bars and sprinkle with chopped dried cranberries to add a rich sweetness and a tart contrast.
Notes
- Ensure bars are completely cooled before cutting to prevent breaking.
- You can substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Use a silicone baking mat instead of parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
