Name: Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 oz pitted Medjool dates ((see note)); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); ½ cup light brown sugar (packed); ½ cup honey; ¾ cup unsalted creamy almond butter ((see note)); ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 2 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies); ½ cup unsweetened flaked coconut; ¾ cup coarsely chopped almonds; 1 cup dried blueberries (heaping)

Granola bars are the ultimate snack for busy days, whether you’re rushing to work, heading to the gym, or looking for a wholesome treat to keep you energized during the afternoon slump. These Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With the natural sweetness from Medjool dates and the crunch of almonds, these bars will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to suit your taste.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Homemade granola bars are a fantastic way to control what goes into your snacks, ensuring they’re free from unnecessary additives and refined sugars. By making your own Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars, you can enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors while nourishing your body. These bars are chewy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect on-the-go treat. They are also versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a delightful addition to your lunchbox.

Ingredients at a Glance

3 oz pitted Medjool dates (see note)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons honey
¾ cup unsalted creamy almond butter (see note)
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups crispy rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies
½ cup unsweetened flaked coconut
¾ cup coarsely chopped almonds
Heaping 1 cup dried blueberries

Gear Up: What to Grab

9×9-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for forming your granola bars.
Parchment paper: Lining the pan with parchment makes it easy to lift the bars out once they’re set.
Medium saucepan: You’ll need this for melting your ingredients together.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl will help you combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: This will come in handy for mixing and spreading the mixture into the pan.

Cook Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars Like This

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to make it easy to lift the bars out once they’re cooled.

Step 2: Blend the Medjool Dates

In a food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates with a splash of warm water. Blend until they form a smooth paste. This will act as a natural sweetener and binder for your granola bars.

Step 3: Melt the Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the light brown sugar, honey, almond butter, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, and dried blueberries. Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients, followed by the date paste. Use a spatula to mix everything until it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Press into the Pan

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly using the back of the spatula or your hands, ensuring it’s packed tightly. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the granola bars in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift them out and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 7: Slice and Store

Once cooled, slice the granola into bars or squares, depending on your preference. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Adaptations for Special Diets

Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Vegan: Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of honey.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the oats and crispy rice cereal are certified gluten-free.
Low-Sugar: Reduce the brown sugar and honey by half and increase the date paste for sweetness.

Problems & Prevention

Granola bars crumbling: Ensure you pack the mixture tightly in the pan and bake them until golden brown.
Too chewy: If the bars are too chewy, they may need a few more minutes of baking time. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Sticking to the pan: Always line your pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Dried fruit alternatives: If you find dried blueberries hard to come by, feel free to substitute with cranberries or cherries for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

These Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch on the weekend and have a healthy snack ready for the week ahead. Simply slice them into bars and store them in an airtight container. For longer freshness, you can freeze them in individual portions. Just thaw at room temperature for a convenient, on-the-go snack.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are coarsely chopped to maintain the right texture.

How do I know when the granola bars are done baking?

The granola bars should be golden brown around the edges. If you press down on the center, it should feel firm, not gooey. Remember, they will continue to harden as they cool.

Can I add chocolate chips to these granola bars?

Yes! Adding mini chocolate chips can elevate the flavor and make them even more indulgent. Just fold them in with the other ingredients before pressing the mixture into the pan.

What’s the best way to store these bars?

Store your Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator or freeze them for up to three months.

Ready, Set, Cook

With these Almond, Blueberry & Date Homemade Granola Bars in your arsenal, you’ll have a scrumptious snack that fuels your day without any guilt. They are simple to make, deliciously nutritious, and perfect for customizing to fit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delightful treat that you can feel good about eating. These bars are not only a wonderful alternative to store-bought snacks, but they are also a testament to the joy of homemade goodness. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite!