Trail Snack Bars
Chewy, sweet trail snack bars packed with marshmallows, granola, and raisins, perfect for hiking, picnics, or quick energy boosts for active lifestyles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 3-quart saucepan over low heat.
- Add marshmallows, stirring until melted.
- Add remaining ingredients, stirring until well coated.
- Press mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cool completely, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for added crunch. If you prefer a sweeter bar, use honey or maple syrup instead of butter. Be sure to stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even coating of the cereal and granola. These bars can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free crisp rice cereal and granola.
Serving Suggestions
These trail snack bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or an energy-boosting snack on the go. Serve them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with Apple Ring Fritters for a fun brunch. Cut them into smaller pieces for a party platter or pack them in lunch boxes for a nutritious treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover trail snack bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a softer texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Trail Snack Bars contains roughly 880 calories, with 12g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% 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 snack bars vegan?
Yes, you can easily make these trail snack bars vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based margarine and using vegan marshmallows. This way, you can enjoy a tasty treat that fits into a vegan diet without sacrificing flavor.
How can I customize the flavors of the bars?
Feel free to customize the bars by adding your favorite mix-ins such as chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or seeds. Experimenting with different granola flavors can also enhance the overall taste. By varying the ingredients, you can create a unique bar every time you make them!
What should I do if my mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky, lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter to help you press it into the pan without it sticking. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the mixture for about 15 minutes before pressing it into the pan, which may make it easier to handle.
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).