Homemade Apple Almond Granola Bars | Made by Meaghan Moineau
Title: Crunchy Comfort: Homemade Apple Almond Granola Bars for Every Heartfelt MomentDescription: Dive into the delightful world of homemade apple almond granola bars. This easy-to-make recipe not only offers a delicious, nutritious snack but also brings back cherished family memories. Perfect for breakfast on the go or a healthy dessert, these granola bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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There's something inherently comforting about the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon wafting through the house. It stirs a sense of nostalgia, transporting me back to chilly autumn afternoons spent in my grandmother's warm kitchen. She would be bustling around, preparing various delights for the family. One of my fondest memories is of her apple almond granola bars—a treat that was both simple and satisfying.
A Family Tradition Rekindled
As a child, I eagerly watched my grandmother as she mixed together rolled oats, ground flax seed, and oat bran with a sprinkle of cinnamon, the spices dancing in the air. The sweet touch of honey would follow, bringing everything together into a harmonious blend. My favorite part was helping her chop up the apples and almonds, little tasks that made me feel like an essential part of the culinary process.
Those granola bars were more than just a snack; they were a symbol of love and togetherness. Each bite was infused with the warmth of family gatherings and laughter that echoed through the kitchen—a tradition that I've carried into my own home, recreating that same cozy atmosphere for my children.
Recipe for Homemade Apple Almond Granola Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup ground flax seed
- 1/4 cup oat bran
- 1/4 cup wheat bran
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup non-fat milk
- 1/4 cup sweet honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flax seed, oat bran, wheat bran, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, sugar substitute, and unsweetened coconut. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Add in the non-fat milk, sweet honey, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is fully combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped apple and almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges start to brown and the kitchen is filled with a tantalizing aroma.
7. Allow the granola to cool for about 10 minutes. Cut into bars while still warm, then let them cool completely before serving.
Difficulty Rating: 4/10
Classification: Dessert
These homemade apple almond granola bars are a testament to the timeless bond between family and food. Easy to make yet packed with flavor and nutrition, they're perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy dessert, or a nostalgic snack that takes you back to simpler times. Share this recipe with loved ones, and continue creating cherished memories in your kitchen.