Trail Mix Cookie Bars

Are you in search of a deliciously wholesome treat that combines the best of both worlds: chewy cookie goodness and the satisfying crunch of trail mix? Look no further! These Trail Mix Cookie Bars are perfect for snack time, lunch boxes, or as a post-workout treat. Packed with nutrients and flavor, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With a delightful mix of oats, nuts, chocolate, and dried fruit, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Let’s dive into how you can make these scrumptious bars at home!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

These Trail Mix Cookie Bars are a hit for several reasons:

– **Flavor**: The combination of mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and golden raisins provides a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
– **Nutrient-Dense**: With whole wheat flour, oats, and nuts, these bars are packed with fiber and protein, making them a satisfying option for any time of day.
– **Customizable**: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. These bars can easily cater to different tastes!
– **Easy to Make**: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, they come together in no time, making them perfect for beginner bakers.

What to Buy

To create your Trail Mix Cookie Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, cold
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 3/4 cup golden raisins or any other dried fruit
• 1 cup chopped almonds
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds

Equipment & Tools

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Spatula: Great for mixing and spreading the batter evenly in the baking pan.
• Baking pan (9×13 inch): Perfect size for these cookie bars.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
• Oven: For baking your delicious cookie bars to perfection.

Trail Mix Cookie Bars Cooking Guide

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making your Trail Mix Cookie Bars!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, melt the coconut oil if it’s solid. Once melted, add the coconut sugar, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Oats and Mix-Ins

Fold in the rolled oats, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, golden raisins, chopped almonds, and sunflower seeds. The mixture will be thick and chunky.

Step 7: Spread in the Pan

Transfer the cookie mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press it down evenly into the corners.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment overhang and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you’re looking to make your Trail Mix Cookie Bars dairy-free or gluten-free, here are some easy swaps:

• For dairy-free: Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free or use carob chips.
• For gluten-free: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making these delicious Trail Mix Cookie Bars, keep the following tips in mind:

• Ensure your coconut oil is solid when measuring, or melt it right before mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to dense bars.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.

Save It for Later

These Trail Mix Cookie Bars store beautifully! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life, up to two weeks.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying!

FAQ

Can I substitute the coconut sugar with regular sugar?

Yes, you can use regular granulated sugar or brown sugar instead, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make these bars without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) as an egg substitute.

What can I use instead of almonds?

Feel free to substitute with any nuts you like, such as walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version!

How can I make these bars more chocolaty?

You can increase the amount of mini chocolate chips or add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a deeper chocolate flavor.

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Save & Share

If you love these Trail Mix Cookie Bars, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! They will appreciate a wholesome, delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.

These Trail Mix Cookie Bars are a delightful and nutritious option that you can whip up in no time! With their blend of flavors and textures, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking. Whether for a snack, dessert, or on-the-go breakfast, these bars are a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy baking and savoring every chewy, chocolatey bite!