Snacking Granola Bars
Crunchy, sweet, and nutty granola bars packed with oats, raisins, and nuts, perfect for a satisfying snack or quick breakfast on the go.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast oats in a 9 x 13-inch pan in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Place toasted oats in a large bowl and add remaining ingredients.
- Mix well.
- Press firmly into a well-greased 11 x 16-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Cool and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of dried fruits like cranberries or apricots along with the raisins. You can substitute the margarine with coconut oil for a healthier option. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Toasting the oats enhances their nuttiness, so don’t skip this step.
Serving Suggestions
These granola bars make an excellent snack on their own or can be served alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a quick breakfast. They pair beautifully with Overnight Raisin Oatmeal Pancakes for a wholesome morning spread. For a delightful treat, enjoy them with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for two weeks. If you prefer them warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snacking Granola Bars contains roughly 1722 calories, with 20g protein, 298g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1023mg per serving (44% 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 use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While quick oats can be used, they may result in a different texture. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency and better hold when baked. If you only have quick oats, reduce the baking time slightly to prevent them from becoming too crumbly.
How can I make these granola bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free granola bars, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, check the labels of all other ingredients, especially the nuts and sweeteners, to confirm they are gluten-free. This allows everyone to enjoy this snack without worry.
What can I add to customize my granola bars?
Feel free to customize your granola bars with ingredients like chocolate chips, seeds (like flax or chia), or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor. Mixing in protein powder can also enhance their nutritional value, making them a more filling snack.
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).