Maple Pecan Granola Bars Recipe

Need a snack to fuel you on your long hike during your camping trip? Try this flavorful granola bar recipe!

Granola Bar Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter or coconut oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out later. 
2. Toast the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
   • Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, honey, and butter (or coconut oil).
   • Stir occasionally until the butter has melted and the mixture is well combined.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oat mixture and the dried cranberries or raisins.
   • Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Press into the Pan:
   • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan.
   • Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Pressing firmly is important to help the bars hold together.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Cool and Cut:
   • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
   • Cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife.
8. Store:
   • Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
   • For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months.

Tips:

• Substitutions: Feel free to substitute other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits based on your preference.
• Add-Ins: You can add chocolate chips, flax seeds, or other mix-ins for variety.
• Press Firmly: Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well.

Enjoy your homemade Maple Pecan Granola Bars as a delicious and nutritious snack at Kiefer Campgrounds!