Soft Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars: A Chewy, Wholesome Snack
Granola bars are a staple snack for busy days, hiking trips, or just a quick bite to satisfy your hunger. But what if you could combine the cozy, nostalgic flavors of an oatmeal raisin cookie with the wholesome goodness of a granola bar? That’s exactly what these Soft Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars offer—a delicious, chewy, and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love These Granola Bars
- Soft and Chewy – Unlike traditional crunchy granola bars, these have a tender texture that makes them even more enjoyable.
- Naturally Sweetened – They use honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Packed with Nutrients – Oats provide fiber, raisins add natural sweetness and antioxidants, and almonds bring in healthy fats and protein.
- Easy to Make – These bars require just a handful of ingredients and come together in no time.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch at the beginning of the week and have a healthy snack ready whenever you need it.
Ingredients
To make these wholesome and delicious granola bars, you’ll need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, raisins, chopped nuts (if using), cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Mix
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be sticky but not overly wet.
Step 5: Press and Bake
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into bars or squares.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars and store for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Ways to Customize Your Bars
- Add Chocolate Chips – A handful of dark chocolate chips makes these bars even more indulgent.
- Use Different Dried Fruits – Try cranberries, chopped dates, or dried cherries for variety.
- Make It Nut-Free – Swap almonds for sunflower seeds and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
- Boost the Protein – Add 2 tablespoons of protein powder to the dry ingredients.
Final Thoughts
These Soft Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and delicious flavors. They’re easy to make, naturally sweetened, and provide lasting energy for busy days. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast on-the-go, a post-workout snack, or a healthy treat, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try making a batch today and enjoy a nutritious snack that tastes just like your favorite oatmeal raisin cookie!