by Christine Galeone

During the lazy days of summer, we frequently don’t need an abundance of energy to fuel our days. But with busier schedules just around the corner, having an energy-boosting or energy-sustaining snack on hand is a pretty good idea. Having one that’s also a joy to eat is an even better one.

For years, granola bars have been the go-to energy snacks for many people. But most of the brands that are sold in grocery stores contain additives, preservatives, artificial ingredients or too much sugar. Making your own granola bars gives you the opportunity to customize them, so that they’re as healthy as you want them to be. And they’re much fresher than the ones sold in stores.  This recipe for dark chocolate honey-nut granola bars is one that you can reach for any time that you want to create a supply of delicious energy snacks.   

These granola bars are a healthy snack because they’re loaded with so many nutritious things.  The oats are the whole grains that can give you energy. They also contain fiber, which is good for your digestive health, and they’re a heart-healthy ingredient that can lower your cholesterol.  

Walnuts and almonds are two of the healthiest nuts that you can consume. They’re healthy for your heart and mind, and the protein they contain helps support your energy. And the dried fruit, dark chocolate and cinnamon have anti-oxidants. Honey – in moderation – is also better for you than granulated sugar, and it can soothe your throat if you have a cough or sore throat.   

Dark Chocolate Honey-Nut Granola Bars

Ingredients:

2 Cups of Rolled Oats

1 Cup of Chopped Walnuts

½ Cup of Slivered Almonds

1 Cup of Freeze-Dried Fruit

1 Tbsp. Unsweetened Cocoa

1 tsp. Cinnamon

¼ Cup of Brown Sugar

¼ Cup of Honey

2 Tbsp. Butter

1 Large Egg

1 tsp. of Almond Extract

1 Cup of Dark Chocolate Chips (or 4 Baker’s Squares of Dark Chocolate)

Directions:

Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a bowl, mix together all the dry ingredients except the chocolate chips.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, microwave the butter and brown sugar until the butter is melted.

Add the honey and almond extract to the wet mixture, and stir until the brown sugar has been dissolved.

Add the egg to the wet mixture, and stir well.

In increments, add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, and combine. 

Distribute the mixture evenly in a 9” X 9” pan, press it down firmly with a spoon, so that it’s level, and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Let it cool completely. Then, melt the chocolate chips or squares, and coat the granola with the melted chocolate.  Cool in the refrigerator, and cut into bars after the chocolate layer has hardened.  Makes about 16 granola bars. 

*Please Note: Honey is unsafe for infants, so this recipe shouldn’t be made for anyone under one-years-old.

  Now, you can greet those busier days with confidence…or, at least, with a delicious homemade granola bar nearby. Happy (healthier) baking!