Description
A maple cinnamon granola bar is a baked snack bar made primarily from whole grain rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, all bound together by a naturally sweetened liquid mixture featuring pure maple syrup and nut butter. The defining characteristics of this particular treat are its warm aroma and cozy flavor profile, driven by a generous infusion of ground cinnamon and natural vanilla. Unlike commercial granola bars that often rely on high fructose corn syrup or hydrogenated oils to achieve structure, this homemade variation relies on simple, real-food ingredients that provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- ½ cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup creamy peanut or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins, optional
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Line an 8-inch (20-cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Mix the dry ingredients: Combine oats, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
- Make the maple mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup, nut butter, and melted butter until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Combine: Pour the warm mixture over the oats and stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Fold in dried fruit or chocolate chips if using.
- Press firmly: Transfer to the prepared pan and press down very firmly with the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass. This helps prevent crumbly bars.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely: Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before lifting them out and slicing into 10–12 bars.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: ~220 kcal
Keywords: homemade maple cinnamon granola bars, maple cinnamon oat bar recipe, easy cinnamon maple granola bars