Recipe - Homemade Muesli Bars: A Delicious And Nutritious Snack Option

Muesli bars are a convenient and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed on the go or as a quick energy boost between meals. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. In this article, we will explore a simple and versatile recipe for homemade muesli bars, along with their preparation and cooking time.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or cashews), roughly chopped
1/2 cup seeds (e.g., pumpkin, sunflower, or chia seeds)
1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond butter or peanut butter)
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: a pinch of salt, cinnamon, or other spices for flavor variation

Method

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper.

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Toss them together until well mixed.

- In a small saucepan, heat the honey or maple syrup, nut butter, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract over low heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to thoroughly mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are coated evenly.

- Optional: If desired, add a pinch of salt, cinnamon, or other spices to enhance the flavor of the muesli bars. Mix well.

- Transfer the mixture into the lined baking dish or tray. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly, compacting it to form a flat surface.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish or tray. This will allow the muesli bars to firm up.

- Once cooled, carefully lift the bars out of the dish or tray using the edges of the parchment paper. Place them on a cutting board and cut into desired bar shapes and sizes.

- Store the homemade muesli bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also individually wrap them for grab-and-go convenience.