Cherry Almond Granola Bars
A simple, nutritious, and customizable snack bar made with rolled oats, almonds, dates, and dried cherries, perfect for on-the-go energy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (gluten-free for GF eaters)
- 3/4 cup slivered almonds (or chopped raw almonds)
- 2/3 cup packed pitted dates (approx. 7-8 large medjool dates)
- 1/3 cup packed dried tart cherries (unsweetened preferred)
- 1/4 cup seeds of choice (flax, hemp, sesame, chia)
- 1 pinch sea salt A healthy pinch
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
- 1/4 cup creamy salted natural almond butter (almonds + salt only)
- 1 Tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) Optional for flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Spread the oats and almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn slightly golden and aromatic.
- Place the pitted dates and dried tart cherries in a food processor and pulse for about 20 seconds until the mixture forms small lumps or a sticky ball.
- Transfer the toasted oats and almonds to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the date-cherry paste along with your chosen seeds, mixing gently to combine all ingredients.
Mixing
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the maple syrup, almond butter, and coconut oil. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract if using.
- Pour the warm syrup mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or your hands, breaking apart the date mixture to distribute it evenly.
- Add extra dried cherries or more maple syrup or almond butter if the mixture feels too dry or crumbly.
Shaping and Chilling
- Transfer the sticky mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover with parchment paper.
- Firmly press down with a flat object like a drinking glass to compact the mixture tightly.
- Place the dish in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to harden the bars.
Slicing and Storing
- Lift the chilled mixture from the dish using the parchment paper and cut into 12 equal bars.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
Toast the oats and almonds longer for a more pronounced nutty flavor. Experiment with different dried fruits and consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest for variety.