Chewy Date Granola Bars

Chewy Date Granola Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack that’s perfect for those on-the-go moments. Packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, almonds, coconut, and dates, these bars offer a balanced combination of healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or something to fuel your workout, these granola bars are both satisfying and energizing. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and require no baking – just mix, press, and refrigerate!

Dates provide a natural source of sweetness and energy, while peanut or almond butter adds richness and creaminess. These granola bars are customizable, allowing you to add extra ingredients such as dark chocolate, dried fruit, or seeds. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious, chewy granola bar that’s far healthier than store-bought versions. The best part? You can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making them perfect for meal prep.

These bars are free from refined sugars and full of nutrient-dense ingredients, offering a healthy alternative for those craving something sweet and chewy. They’re also great for kids, providing a natural source of energy that’s both filling and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chewy Date Granola Bars are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. The combination of oats, nuts, and seeds provides a great source of fiber and protein, while dates add a natural sweetness without any refined sugars. These bars are also easy to customize – you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making them a versatile snack option. They’re no-bake, simple to prepare, and perfect for meal prepping, meaning you can enjoy a nutritious treat all week long.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup raw sliced almonds
• 1 cup shredded coconut flakes
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds
• 1 cup pitted dates, roughly chopped (soaked if needed, see notes)
• ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter or almond butter
• ¼ cup honey or pure maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 ounces dark chocolate (optional)

Variations

• Add dried fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots to add a fruity punch.
• Use different nuts: Swap the sliced almonds for other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews.
• Vegan option: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make the bars fully vegan.
• Chocolate lovers: Add more dark chocolate or mix in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make these granola bars gluten-free.
• Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

If your dates are a bit dry, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes until they soften. Drain well, then chop them into small pieces. This helps them blend better into the granola bars.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, chia seeds or flax seeds, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 3: Make the Wet Mixture

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the peanut butter or almond butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and runny.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the chopped dates and stir everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be sticky but cohesive. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more honey or peanut butter until it holds together.

Step 5: Press the Mixture into a Pan

Line a baking dish (8×8 inches or similar size) with parchment paper. Transfer the granola mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with your hands or a spatula. Pressing the mixture well ensures the bars hold together once set.

Step 6: Add Chocolate (Optional)

If you want to add chocolate, melt the dark chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the granola bars, then place the pan in the fridge to set.

Step 7: Refrigerate

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to firm up. Once set, cut the mixture into squares or bars.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Press firmly: Make sure to press the granola mixture into the pan firmly so the bars stick together once set.
• Chill the bars: Refrigerating the bars for a couple of hours helps them firm up and hold their shape.
• Customize the sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the bars by adding more or less honey or maple syrup depending on your taste.
• Soaking dates: If your dates are dry, soaking them makes them easier to chop and helps them blend into the mixture better.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove the bars once they’ve set.

How to Serve

Chewy Date Granola Bars can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a light dessert. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a smoothie for a more balanced meal. These bars are also great for packing in lunchboxes or taking with you on hikes or road trips. The convenience and portability of these bars make them perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying and nutritious snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a warm climate, it may be best to keep them in the fridge to prevent them from getting too soft.

Freezing

To freeze, place the granola bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to eat.

Reheating

Granola bars are best served at room temperature, but you can also warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired. They will retain their chewy texture after reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use any other nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter depending on your preference.

2. Can I make these granola bars without dates?

Yes, you can substitute dates with raisins, dried apricots, or figs. Just be sure to chop them up into small pieces.

3. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of quick oats?

Quick oats are best for this recipe, but if you only have steel-cut oats, you can grind them a little in a blender or food processor to help with the texture.

4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats to make the bars completely gluten-free.

5. Can I add more seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds to the granola bars for extra crunch and nutrition.

6. How do I prevent the bars from falling apart?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan, and refrigerate the bars for a couple of hours to allow them to firm up before cutting.

7. Can I add protein powder to these bars?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for an extra boost of protein.

8. Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute the honey with agave nectar, maple syrup, or brown rice syrup if you prefer a different sweetener.

9. Can I skip the chocolate?

Yes, the chocolate is optional. The granola bars are already sweet enough from the dates and honey, but the chocolate adds a nice touch if you prefer a richer flavor.

10. How long do these granola bars last?

These bars last for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature, or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Chewy Date Granola Bars are a delicious, nutritious, and customizable snack that’s perfect for any time of day. With simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re easy to make and can be stored for days or even months. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast, a pre-workout snack, or a healthy treat, these bars are a satisfying and energizing choice. They’re also great for meal prepping, so you always have a healthy option available when you need it. With the flexibility to adjust the flavors and ingredients, these granola bars are sure to become a go-to snack in your household.

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