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To make Cherry Almond Granola Bars, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will use: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1/2 cup almond butter - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1 cup dried cherries, chopped - 1/2 cup sliced almonds - 1/4 cup chia seeds - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract These ingredients work together to create a chewy and tasty snack. The rolled oats form the base, giving good texture and fiber. Almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats. Honey or maple syrup sweetens the bars perfectly. Dried cherries bring a burst of flavor, while sliced almonds give a nice crunch. Chia seeds add nutrition and help bind the bars. Sea salt enhances all the flavors, and vanilla extract adds a warm aroma. You can find these ingredients at any grocery store. Using fresh and high-quality items makes a big difference. Now, you’re ready to gather these ingredients and start your fun cooking adventure! 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat helps the bars cook evenly. 2. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This makes removal easy. 1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of sliced almonds, 1/4 cup of chia seeds, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. 2. Mix these dry ingredients well. You want them evenly distributed for great flavor and texture. 1. In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of almond butter, 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over low heat. 2. Stir gently until the mix is smooth. This step helps blend the flavors together. 1. Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. 2. Add 1 cup of chopped dried cherries. Mix everything until all the ingredients are coated and sticky. 1. Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish. 2. Press down firmly to create an even layer. Compacting it tightly gives the bars their shape. 3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color around the edges. 1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes. 2. Once cooled, lift the granola out using the parchment paper. 3. Cut it into bars of your desired size. Enjoy your tasty snack! When making Cherry Almond Granola Bars, you can choose between honey and maple syrup. Both work well. I prefer honey for its rich taste. It also helps hold the bars together. Maple syrup adds a nice flavor, too. If you want a vegan option, go for maple syrup. It gives a sweet touch and is plant-based. Pressing the granola mixture is key to getting the right bar texture. After mixing the ingredients, transfer them to your baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly. This step helps the bars stay together when you cut them. If you skip this, your bars may crumble apart. To prevent burning the edges, keep an eye on your granola bars. Bake them until they turn golden brown around the edges. This usually takes 20-25 minutes. If you notice they are browning too fast, lower the oven temperature. You want a nice, even color. Remember, a golden color means they are ready! {{image_2}} You can easily change the nuts in this recipe. If you want a twist, try walnuts or pecans. These nuts add nice crunch and flavor. You can even use peanuts for a different taste. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds work great too. They give that same crunch without the nuts. Spices can change the whole vibe of your granola bars. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth. You could add nutmeg for a hint of spice. Coconut flakes also give a tropical touch. Mix these in with the dry ingredients for a burst of flavor. Dried fruits can change the taste too. If you don’t have dried cherries, use cranberries instead. Raisins are a great option too. They sweeten the bars nicely. You can even mix two or more dried fruits for a fun twist. This keeps your snacks exciting and fresh. Store your Cherry Almond Granola Bars in airtight containers. This keeps them fresh. You can use glass jars or plastic containers. Just make sure they seal tight. This helps to prevent moisture and keeps the bars crisp. These granola bars can last for up to two weeks at room temperature. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last a bit longer. Just remember to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze these bars for later use. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to keep them from getting freezer burn. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer bag or container. When you're ready to eat one, let it thaw at room temperature. Enjoy your tasty snack anytime! Yes, you can easily make these granola bars gluten-free. Use certified gluten-free oats. Many brands offer oats processed in gluten-free facilities. This helps avoid cross-contamination. Check the package to ensure they meet gluten-free standards. You can enjoy these bars without worry. If you have an allergy to almonds, try sunflower seed butter. It works well and is nut-free. Peanut butter is another option if you like the flavor. Each alternative brings a unique taste but keeps the bar's texture. Choose based on your taste and any dietary needs. Yes, these granola bars are healthy! They contain whole ingredients that offer many benefits. Rolled oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Dried cherries add antioxidants and natural sweetness. Almonds give protein and healthy fats. Together, they create a tasty and nutritious snack. You now have a simple way to make homemade granola bars. We covered the right ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You can customize your bars with different nuts and fruits. Remember to press down for great texture and store them well. These bars are not just tasty—they’re also healthy. Enjoy making them for snacks or breakfast. You’ll love the fresh flavors and the fun of creating something delicious on your own.

Cherry Almond Granola Bars

Looking for a delicious snack that’s both healthy and easy to make? Try these Cherry Almond Granola Bars! Packed with rolled oats, almond butter, and sweet dried cherries, these bars are perfect for on-the-go energy. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a homemade treat the whole family will love. Click through for the full recipe and tips on how to present them beautifully!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup almond butter

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1 cup dried cherries, chopped

1/2 cup sliced almonds

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, chia seeds, and sea salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

      In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat.

        Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Add the chopped dried cherries and mix thoroughly until everything is coated and sticky.

          Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press down firmly to create an even layer. Use a spatula or your hands to compact it tightly.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown around the edges.

              Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, lift out the granola using the parchment paper overhang and cut it into bars of desired size.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                  - Presentation Tips: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for a rustic presentation, or stack them neatly in a glass jar for a delicious snack display.