Coconut Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

$To make these tasty granola bars, you'll need: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut - 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter) - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) You can mix and match ingredients to fit your taste: - Nut butter: Use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you like. - Sweetener: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. - Chocolate chips: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different taste. - Seeds and nuts: Add pumpkin seeds or walnuts for crunch. Each serving, which is one granola bar, has roughly: - Calories: 180 - Protein: 4g - Carbohydrates: 22g - Fiber: 3g - Sugars: 8g - Fat: 8g - Saturated Fat: 1g - Sodium: 50mg These granola bars are a great snack option. They provide energy and taste amazing. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, you need to prepare your baking pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easier to lift out the bars later. Now, let’s mix the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds - 1/4 cup chopped nuts Stir these together until they blend well. This mix gives the bars texture and flavor. For the wet mixture, grab a microwave-safe bowl. Add: - 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter) - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Heat this in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth. This mixture will help bind the dry ingredients. Now, pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix everything well. Make sure all the dry ingredients get coated. Then, fold in: - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips Press the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use the back of the spatula to spread it evenly and press down firmly. This helps the bars hold their shape during baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully lift them out using the parchment paper. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares or rectangles. Enjoy your tasty, homemade Coconut Chocolate Chip Granola Bars! To make your granola bars chewy yet firm, measure all your ingredients well. Use rolled oats; they hold together better. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until fully coated. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring it binds well. Baking until the edges turn golden helps create a slight crunch, while keeping the center soft. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about one week. If you want them to last longer, wrap them in parchment paper and freeze. This method keeps them tasty for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying. These bars make great snacks for any time of day. You can cut them into small squares for quick bites. Pair them with yogurt or fruit for a nutritious breakfast. For a fun treat, drizzle melted chocolate on top! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh rolled oats and unsweetened coconut for the best texture and flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to a less satisfying granola bar. Melt Carefully: When melting your almond butter and sweetener, do it in short intervals in the microwave to prevent overheating, which can alter the consistency and flavor. Firmly Press the Mixture: Ensure you press the granola mixture firmly into the baking pan. This helps the bars hold together better once baked and cut. Storage Tips: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking! {{image_2}} To make vegan coconut chocolate chip granola bars, simply swap honey for maple syrup. This keeps the bars sweet while making them plant-based. Use almond butter or any nut butter that suits your taste. You can enjoy these bars without any animal products. For a gluten-free version, ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free. This small change helps avoid any gluten cross-contamination. You can use gluten-free nut butter and make sure any add-ins, like chocolate chips, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bars. You can get creative with your granola bars! Here are some fun ideas: - Seeds: Add chia seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. - Dried Fruit: Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for sweetness. - Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. - Nut Variations: Use different nuts like pecans or cashews for a unique flavor. Feel free to mix and match your favorite add-ins. This makes your bars personal and fun! I like to keep my granola bars fresh by storing them properly. First, let them cool completely after baking. Then, cut them into squares or rectangles. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them chewy and tasty. You can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the container in a cool, dry place. Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your granola bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want one, just take it out. Let it thaw at room temperature or heat it in the microwave for a few seconds. When stored well, these granola bars can last about one week at room temperature. If you see any mold or if they smell off, it's best to throw them away. Signs of spoilage include a change in texture or an unusual taste. Always check before enjoying your snacks! Yes, you can use any nut butter you like. Almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter all work well. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still taste great. Just make sure it is smooth and creamy for the best results. If you want to skip honey, use maple syrup instead. It adds sweetness and keeps the bars sticky. You can also try agave syrup or brown rice syrup. Each option will give a unique flavor but will still hold the bars together well. You have many options! Use dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or apricots. Chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate can also work. If you want a healthier option, try cacao nibs for a chocolate taste without the sugar. Yes, homemade granola bars are usually healthier. You control the ingredients and can avoid extra sugars and preservatives. You can also add nutritious add-ins like seeds or protein powder. This way, you can make a snack that fits your diet perfectly. Absolutely! Adding protein powder is a great way to boost nutrition. Mix in a scoop when you combine the dry ingredients. This will help make your bars more filling and support your energy needs throughout the day. Just adjust the liquids if needed to keep the right texture. Coconut chocolate chip granola bars are easy to make and customize. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and key tips to get the best bars. Remember, choosing the right nut butter and add-ins can change the flavor and health benefits. These bars are great for snacks or breakfast on the go. Enjoy experimenting with variations. Storing them well keeps them fresh and tasty. Make a batch today and enjoy!$

Coconut Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

Delicious and chewy granola bars made with oats, coconut, and chocolate chips.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
0.5 cup almond butter
0.5 cup honey or maple syrup
0.5 cup dark chocolate chips
0.25 cup sunflower seeds
0.25 cup chopped nuts
0.25 teaspoon sea salt
0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, and chopped nuts. Mix well.
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Heat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds until melted and easily mixed. Stir until smooth.
Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Fold in the dark chocolate chips until just combined.
Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and pressing down firmly with the back of a spatula to ensure it holds together.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, lift the granola bars out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles.

Notes

Arrange the bars on a platter and sprinkle with extra shredded coconut and chocolate chips for decoration.

Keyword chocolate, coconut, granola bars, snack