Crunchy granola bars packed with pumpkin seeds, cranberries, oats, and a hint of honey for a healthy bite.
# Components:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup roasted unsalted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
03 - 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
04 - 1/2 cup chopped almonds
05 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
→ Wet Ingredients
08 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
09 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for removal.
02 - In a large bowl, mix oats, pumpkin seeds, cranberries, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt until evenly blended.
03 - Over medium heat, stir honey, brown sugar, and butter in a small saucepan until it reaches a gentle boil. Simmer 1–2 minutes while stirring continuously until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly to fully coat all components.
05 - Transfer the blend to the prepared pan and firmly press with a spatula or parchment paper to create an even layer.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until edges turn golden brown.
07 - Remove from oven and allow to cool undisturbed in the pan for about 1 hour.
08 - Lift the set granola from the pan using parchment overhang and slice into 12 equal bars with a sharp knife.
