The Best Soft Granola Bars

 The Best Soft Granola Bars are chewy, sweet, and packed with nutritious ingredients. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite mix-ins, and perfect for a snack or breakfast on the go. Here's a simple recipe for making soft, homemade granola bars:

Ingredients:

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, optional)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pan:

Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easier to remove the granola bars once they’re set.

2. Mix dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, salt, and any optional add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts.

3. Make the wet mixture:

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and brown sugar. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until the oats are evenly coated and everything is combined.

5. Press into the pan:

Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture firmly into an even layer.

6. Chill and set:

Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the granola bars have set and firmed up. This step helps the bars hold together better.

7. Cut and serve:

Once chilled and set, lift the granola out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars.

These Best Soft Granola Bars are chewy, sweet, and packed with energy-boosting ingredients. You can easily adjust the mix-ins to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making them perfect for anyone lookin

g for a homemade snack that’s healthy and delicious!