Are you tired of boring, store-bought granola bars that lack flavor and nutrition? Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these mouthwatering Coconut Quinoa Granola Bars that are not just incredibly tasty, but packed with wholesome goodness! Imagine biting into a bar that combines the nutty richness of quinoa, the tropical sweetness of coconut, and a perfect blend of crunchy textures - all while giving your body the fuel it craves. Whether you're a health enthusiast, busy professional, or just someone looking for a delicious homemade treat, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, rolled oats, and shredded coconut. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) together for 30-45 seconds until they become smooth and easily blendable.
- Add the vanilla extract to the warmed nut butter mixture and stir until completely incorporated.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well, ensuring all dry ingredients are evenly coated.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts or seeds for additional texture and nutrition.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the entire block out of the pan, then cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use cooled quinoa to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet and ensure proper binding.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create compact bars that hold together well.
- For extra crunch, toast your oats and coconut lightly before mixing.
- Experiment with different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique flavor profiles.
- If the bars seem too soft, let them cool completely - they'll firm up as they reach room temperature.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce honey and add a pinch of cinnamon for depth of flavor.
- These bars are perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for up to a month!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
