Granola Cookie Bars
Chewy and flavorful granola cookie bars combine oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and raisins for a satisfying treat perfect for snacking or dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and water until evenly incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, flake coconut, and raisins.
- Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with coconut oil. You can also use honey or maple syrup in place of some sugar for a healthier option. If you want a nutty twist, add chopped nuts or seeds. Keep an eye on the bars while baking to prevent over-browning, as they can vary based on oven performance.
Serving Suggestions
These granola cookie bars make a great on-the-go snack or a delightful dessert. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside a slice of Easy Orange Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover granola cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, which can help maintain freshness. If you prefer warm bars, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granola Cookie Bars contains roughly 663 calories, with 3g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 697mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these granola cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that the oats used are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. This way, everyone can enjoy them without worry.
How can I make these cookie bars less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can cut down on the sugar by about 1/2 cup or use unsweetened coconut and dark chocolate chips. You might also consider adding more oats to balance the sweetness, giving you a tasty treat that’s still satisfying.
Can I freeze these granola cookie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).