Save to Pinterest Crunchy, chewy granola bars packed with roasted pumpkin seeds, tart cranberries, oats, and a touch of honey are perfect for a healthy snack on the go. This recipe is a flavorful way to enjoy energy-packed bars with wholesome ingredients.
I first made these granola bars for a weekend hike, and they were a huge hit with friends and family. The combination of crunchy pumpkin seeds and chewy cranberries adds a satisfying texture you’ll want to make again.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), unsalted: 1 cup
- Dried cranberries, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Chopped almonds: 1/2 cup
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: 1/4 cup
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/3 cup
- Light brown sugar, packed: 1/4 cup
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Heat wet ingredients:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine mixtures:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Press and bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a spatula or another sheet of parchment to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and cut:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan (about 1 hour). Lift the granola slab out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 even bars with a sharp knife.
Save to Pinterest These granola bars quickly became a family favorite, especially for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. Watching everyone gather in the kitchen to cut and share the first batch was a special moment.
Required Tools
8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, saucepan, spatula, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains nuts (almonds), dairy (butter), and potential gluten (oats if not certified gluten-free). Always check ingredient labels for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 205, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 28 g, Protein 5 g
Save to Pinterest Try customizing these bars with your favorite mix-ins for a treat everyone will love. Enjoy them at home or on your next adventure!
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I substitute the pumpkin seeds with another nut or seed?
Yes, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like walnuts can be used as a substitute, adding a different crunch and flavor profile.
- → How do I store these bars to keep them fresh?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.
- → Is it possible to make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! Replace butter with a vegan alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based option.
- → What is the purpose of toasting the oats and nuts before mixing?
Toasting enhances the nutty flavors and adds extra crunch to the bars, deepening their overall taste.
- → Can I replace dried cranberries with other dried fruits?
Yes, dried cherries or blueberries work well and provide a similar tart sweetness to the bars.