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.
I started making these bars for busy mornings and quick snacks. The combination of roasted pumpkin seeds and chewy cranberries always brightens my day, and my family loves grabbing them for hiking trips.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), unsalted: 1 cup
- Dried cranberries, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Chopped almonds: 1/2 cup
- 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, packed: 1/4 cup
- 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 Ingredients:
- Combine oats, roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, stir honey, brown sugar, and butter until it comes to a gentle boil. Let 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 and mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
- Shape:
- Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Use a spatula or parchment sheet to press firmly and evenly into pan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown around edges.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in pan, about 1 hour.
- Cut Bars:
- Lift slab out using parchment overhang and cut into 12 bars with a sharp knife.
Save We love packing these bars for road trips. Last fall, my kids helped mix the ingredients and proudly pressed them into the pan before baking together.
Required Tools
Essential tools: 8x8 inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, saucepan, spatula, and a sharp knife for cutting.
Allergen Information
Contains nuts (almonds), dairy (butter), and possible gluten (from oats). Use certified gluten-free oats and vegan butter if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 205 Protein: 5 g Total Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 28 g
Save Enjoy these granola bars with your morning coffee or pack them for outdoor adventures. Make a double batch and freeze some for later!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with walnuts, pecans, or cashews to vary the texture and flavor.
- → How can I make these bars vegan?
Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.
- → Is it possible to use different dried fruits?
Absolutely, dried cherries, blueberries, or raisins work well as substitutes for cranberries.
- → Can I toast the oats and nuts before mixing?
Toasting oats and nuts for about 8 minutes enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
- → What is the best way to store these bars?
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.