The recent MadeGood granola bars recall FDA news serves as an important reminder that even trusted brands can face unexpected issues. With over 2.4 million granola bars recalled due to potential metal contamination, many are wondering: What’s the best way to ensure a truly wholesome snack?
If you love granola bars but want full control over what goes into them, homemade is a great option. These healthy granola bars come together in just 15 minutes, using simple, real ingredients – no preservatives, no surprises, just good food. They’re chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with nutrients, making them perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or a satisfying afternoon snack.
Once you try these, you might find yourself reaching for homemade more often!
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Nutritious – Just five whole-food ingredients, no unnecessary additives.
- Ridiculously Easy – No baking required – just blend, mix, and chill.
- Naturally Sweetened – Dates and maple syrup add just the right amount of sweetness.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy them all week long.
- Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
A handful of simple ingredients come together to make these healthy granola bars:
- Dates – The natural binder that keeps the bars chewy with a rich caramel-like sweetness.
- Maple syrup (or agave/honey) – Adds a hint of natural sweetness and helps everything stick together.
- Peanut butter (or almond butter) – Provides creaminess, protein, and healthy fats.
- Roasted almonds – A crunchy contrast to the soft, chewy texture.
- Rolled oats – The hearty base that gives structure and fiber.
- Optional mix-ins – Chocolate chips, dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds for extra flavor.
💡 Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below!
How to Make Healthy Granola Bars
Step 1: Blend the Dates
Place the pitted dates in a food processor and blend for about a minute until they form a sticky, dough-like consistency.
Step 2: Toast the Oats and Almonds (Optional, But Worth It!)
For extra depth of flavor, spread the oats and almonds on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (176°C) for 10-15 minutes. This step brings out a warm, nutty taste, but you can skip it if you prefer a raw version.
Step 3: Mix It Up
Add the oats, almonds, and blended dates to a large mixing bowl.
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup (or honey/agave) and peanut butter, stirring until smooth. Pour this over the dry ingredients and mix well until evenly combined.
Step 4: Pack It In
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and press the granola mixture in firmly. Use a flat-bottomed glass or spatula to compact it – this ensures the bars hold their shape when sliced.
Step 5: Chill & Slice
Refrigerate or freeze the bars for 15-20 minutes until firm. Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan and slice into 10 even bars.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use soft, sticky dates – If your dates feel dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain before blending.
- Press the mixture down tightly – This prevents the bars from falling apart.
- Let them chill longer for a firmer texture – The colder they are, the better they hold together.
- Customize your mix-ins – Add chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or chia seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
How to Serve
These healthy granola bars are versatile and fit into any part of your day:
- Breakfast on the go – Pair with a smoothie or coffee for a quick start.
- Pre/Post-workout fuel – Packed with natural energy to keep you going.
- Lunchbox snack – A homemade treat without unnecessary additives.
- Healthy dessert – Drizzle with dark chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to a month. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
No need to reheat – just grab and enjoy! If frozen, let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Are homemade granola bars healthier than store-bought ones?
Homemade granola bars give you full control over ingredients, avoiding preservatives, refined sugars, and additives commonly found in packaged options.
Can I make these without nuts?
Yes! Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and almonds for pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
How do I make these bars crunchier?
Toast the oats and almonds before mixing, and let the bars set longer in the fridge before slicing.
Can I add protein powder?
Absolutely! Mix 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder with the dry ingredients for an extra boost.
Final Thoughts
The MadeGood granola bars recall FDA has reminded us that even trusted products can sometimes face quality concerns. While store-bought snacks are convenient, making your own healthy granola bars at home ensures that every ingredient is wholesome, safe, and exactly what you want.
This recipe isn’t just about avoiding recalls – it’s about empowering you to make better food choices. With minimal effort and a handful of real ingredients, you can create a snack that’s delicious, nutritious, and made just the way you like it.
If you found this helpful, share this recipe with a friend! Homemade snacks just taste better.
Now, grab your ingredients and let’s get mixing!
Healthy Granola Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 heaping cup pitted dates Deglet Noor or Medjool, sticky and moist
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar or honey
- 1/4 cup creamy salted peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 cup roasted unsalted almonds loosely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats use gluten-free if needed
Optional Mix-Ins
- chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, banana chips, vanilla optional additions
Instructions
- Process the dates in a food processor until small bits remain (about 1 minute). It should form a dough-like consistency.
- Optional: Toast oats and almonds in a 350°F (176°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden. Skip if you prefer raw.
- Place oats, almonds, and processed dates in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm maple syrup and peanut butter until smooth. Pour over oat mixture and mix well.
- Transfer mixture to an 8×8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Press down firmly until evenly flattened.
- Cover and chill in the fridge or freezer for at least 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Once firm, lift from the pan and cut into 10 even bars. Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Mixing Bowl
- 8×8-inch Pan
Notes
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