Save Crunchy, chewy granola bars packed with roasted pumpkin seeds, tart cranberries, oats, and a touch of honey—perfect for a healthy snack on the go.
My family requests these granola bars every week, and they've become our favorite fuel for hiking trips and school lunches.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas): 1 cup, unsalted
- Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Almonds: 1/2 cup, chopped
- 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: 1/4 cup, packed
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prep Pan:
- Preheat 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:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Cook Wet:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until gently boiling. Simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine:
- Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients. Mix until evenly coated.
- Shape:
- Spread mixture into prepared pan. Use spatula or parchment paper to press down firmly and evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until edges turn golden brown.
- Cool:
- Let cool completely in pan for about 1 hour.
- Cut:
- Lift granola out using parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars.
Save Making these bars with my kids has become a weekend ritual and always brings everyone together in the kitchen.
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—use certified gluten-free oats if needed). Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 205, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 5 g per bar
Save Grab one of these bars for a delicious boost wherever your day takes you.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What gives the bars their crunchy texture?
The combination of toasted rolled oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, and chopped almonds provides a satisfying crunch in each bite.
- → Can I substitute the cranberries with other dried fruits?
Yes, dried cherries or blueberries work well as alternatives, offering different but delightful tartness.
- → How do I ensure the bars hold together firmly?
Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan and baking until edges turn golden helps the bars maintain their shape after cooling.
- → Is it possible to make these bars vegan-friendly?
Absolutely, replacing butter with a vegan alternative and using maple syrup instead of honey makes these bars suitable for vegans.
- → What is the best way to store these bars for freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer preservation, up to two months.
- → Are there common allergens in these bars?
Yes, they contain nuts (almonds), dairy (butter), and gluten from oats unless using certified gluten-free oats.