Fruit-Filled Granola Bars Recipe
Perfect for Breakfast, Snacks, or a Grab-and-Go Treat
This simple yet delicious recipe for fruit-filled granola bars is not only free from peanuts, grapes, and palm-based products but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for those with allergies or anyone looking for a nutritious, vegan-friendly snack. With a sweet, fruity filling and a satisfying crunch, these bars are ideal for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a tasty treat for large groups. Read on for all the details on how to make your very own homemade granola bars!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Baking soda | 1/4 tsp |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Pecans | 8-10 whole nuts |
| Walnuts | 8-10 whole nuts |
| Fruit puree (any fruit of your choice, such as apple, berry, or apricot) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 135.6 kcal |
| Fat | 7.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 72.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 16.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.9 g |
| Sugar | 8.2 g |
| Protein | 1.9 g |
Preparation Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and baking soda. Stir until well mixed. -
Incorporate the Margarine:
Cut in the margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will create the base of the granola bars, which should have a crumbly yet slightly moist texture. -
Prepare the Pan:
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside. -
Press the Oat Mixture into the Pan:
Take most of the oat mixture (reserving 1/4 cup) and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared pan. Make sure the mixture is evenly distributed and compacted. -
Spread the Fruit Puree:
Spread your chosen fruit puree over the oat mixture. The fruit puree can be made from fresh fruit like apples, berries, or apricots, giving the bars a naturally sweet flavor. -
Top with Nuts and Oat Mixture:
Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup of the oat mixture over the fruit puree. Next, scatter the pecans and walnuts on top of the bars. These nuts will add a delightful crunch and complement the fruity filling perfectly. -
Press Lightly:
Gently press the mixture to ensure the nuts are embedded in the granola without squishing the fruit puree to the top. This step ensures that the nuts are secured and the texture remains crisp after baking. -
Bake the Granola Bars:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the granola bars for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen will let you know when they’re ready! -
Cool and Cut:
Once baked, allow the granola bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After cooling, slice them into bars or squares, making about 20-25 pieces, depending on your preferred size. -
Enjoy!
These granola bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They make the perfect portable snack for busy mornings or a delicious addition to your lunchbox!
Additional Tips
- Customize the Fruit: Feel free to use any fruit puree you like. Apple, pear, apricot, and even mango work beautifully in these bars. You can even mix different fruits to create a unique flavor profile.
- Add Extra Texture: If you’d like a bit more texture, try adding dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots to the mixture.
- Vegan Variation: This recipe is already vegan, but if you want to make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or oat flour.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these granola bars alongside a cup of your favorite herbal tea or coffee for a wholesome breakfast.
- Pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes as a nut-free, allergy-friendly snack.
- Pair them with a smoothie for a filling post-workout snack.
Why You’ll Love These Fruit-Filled Granola Bars
Not only are these granola bars free from common allergens like peanuts and grapes, but they’re also incredibly versatile. With a short preparation time and easy-to-find ingredients, they make a perfect addition to any busy household, particularly if you’re looking for something healthy to munch on between meals. Enjoy them on the go, at work, or as a light dessert after dinner. Their rich nutty crunch paired with the sweet, fruity filling will have you coming back for more!
Reader Reviews
⭐ “Perfect Snack”
“These granola bars are a hit in my house! My kids love them, and I feel good knowing they’re made with natural ingredients. They’re a great snack for school lunches!” – Jessica M.
⭐ “Quick and Easy!”
“I love how easy these are to make. I swapped the fruit puree for homemade apple sauce, and they turned out delicious. Definitely making these again!” – Linda T.
Yield: 20-25 Bars
Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Vegan, Grains, Fruit
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Enjoy these homemade fruit-filled granola bars the next time you’re in need of a wholesome snack!
