Chewy Granola Bars Recipe
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5
Chewy Granola Bars Recipe
Description
This recipe uses pitted dates blended with walnuts, old fashioned oats, and cinnamon to create a naturally sweet, dense, and chewy mixture. The dates act as a binder while lending a rich sweetness without refined sugars. The walnut pieces add crunch and earthiness, while the oats contribute to the texture and help bulk the bars.
Once blended, the mixture is pressed firmly into a parchment-lined pan to ensure the bars hold together after freezing. The optional topping of semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, and unsweetened shredded coconut adds layers of flavor and texture contrast. A 20-minute freeze firms up the bars for clean cutting into portions.
These bars are a versatile snack, with suggested ingredient swaps such as pecans for walnuts or dried cranberries for a tangy element, and even the addition of peanut butter for richness. They keep well frozen for quick access to a nutritious, sweet treat with toasted nuts and warm cinnamon notes.
Ingredients
- 2 cup Medjool dates Pitted (see Note #1)
- 1 ½ cup walnuts
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
To Top:
- ½ cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup walnuts Chopped
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Place dates, walnuts, old fashioned oats, and cinnamon in a food processor.
- Blend on low for a minute and then high for another minute or two, until all the ingredients are combined together.
- Coat a 9X9 pan with non stick spray and line with a parchment paper. Transfer the date walnut mixture into the pan and spread evenly using a spatula.
- Top with chocolate chips, walnuts, and shredded coconut (optional).
- Put the bars in the freezer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, take them out of the freezer and out of the pan onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the slab into 8 pieces (or more smaller pieces).
Notes
- Use soft Medjool dates for best blending; soak dry dates in hot water 10 minutes if needed.
- Press the mixture tightly into the pan to help bars hold their shape after freezing.
- Customize by replacing walnuts with pecans, adding dried cranberries, or stirring in peanut butter for variation.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 370 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 370kcal | 19% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.