Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Are you ready to indulge your taste buds with a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors? These Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars are the perfect snack for any time of day. Whether you’re on-the-go, need a post-workout boost, or simply want a delicious treat, these bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste. Plus, they’re super easy to make!

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover why it works every time.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of these Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars lies in their balance of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy peanut butter and salty nuts creates a rich base, while the sweetness from the brown sugar and honey (or maple syrup) elevates the entire experience. The addition of mini chocolate chips and sour cherries adds bursts of flavor and a satisfying chewiness. The oats provide a hearty texture that holds everything together, making these bars a perfect snack that you can enjoy anytime.

Ingredient Checklist

• 3 1/3 cups quick rolled oats
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2/3 cup oat flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons finely ground sea salt
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup salted almonds, roughly chopped
• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 cup sour cherries, roughly chopped
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 1/3 cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/4 cups coconut oil (or canola oil), melted
• 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large mixing bowl – for combining dry ingredients.
• Medium mixing bowl – for mixing wet ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking pan – to form and bake the granola bars.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal and cleanup.
• Spatula – for mixing and spreading the mixture evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement.

Method: Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the quick rolled oats, light brown sugar, oat flour, finely ground sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Mix the Nuts and Cherries

Add the roughly chopped salted peanuts, salted almonds, walnuts, and sour cherries to the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, melted coconut oil (or canola oil), and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, mix until all the ingredients are well coated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the granola mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly with the spatula to ensure an even layer that holds together well.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into bars of your desired size.

How to Make It Lighter

• Substitute half of the creamy peanut butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-calorie option.
• Use agave nectar instead of honey or maple syrup for a lower glycemic index alternative.
• Reduce the amount of chocolate chips or use dark chocolate chips for a healthier option.

Chef’s Rationale

These Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars are not just delicious; they also offer a well-rounded snack option. The oats provide essential fiber, while the nuts deliver healthy fats and protein. The addition of sour cherries brings antioxidants into the mix. By making these bars at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring they are free from unnecessary additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To store your Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. For even longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, making it easy to grab a quick snack whenever you need it!

Quick Q&A

Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you prefer or have on hand. Just make sure to keep the total quantity similar for the right texture.

Can I make these granola bars vegan?

Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

What can I use instead of oat flour?

You can blend rolled oats in a blender or food processor until they form a fine powder, or use whole wheat flour as an alternative.

Can I add protein powder to these bars?

Yes! You can mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder with the dry ingredients. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

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Wrap-Up

These Sweet and Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. With their wholesome ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a nutritious treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you are enjoying them at home or on the go, these granola bars are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try making a batch today and taste the difference for yourself!