You already know that homemade snacks are almost always healthier than store-bought ones, if only because you know exactly what's in them. These granola bars are made with only wholesome, all natural ingredients.
Coconut oil provides a nice addition to these bars, making them nice and chewy. There is some controversy over whether coconut oil really has the health benefits that some people claim it has. If you are convinced that it does not, feel free to use melted butter in place of the coconut oil.
This recipe can also be adjusted to suit your family's tastes. Add sweetened dried cranberries, chopped almonds or raisins in place of the walnuts, chocolate chips and coconut if you like.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 24 granola bars
Ingredients:
- 2-1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oatmeal)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (or sweetened flaked coconut for a sweeter granola bar)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil, melted
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat (compare prices).
- Place the rolled oats, walnuts, coconut and chocolate chips in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over top. Add the melted coconut oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula (compare prices) until well combined.
- Turn the mixture out onto the prepared pan. Pat it into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. Bake 45 minutes or until firm to the touch and very lightly golden browned around the edges.
- Let the bars cool for 10 minutes, then cut into rectangles, and serve immediately. Store in an air-tight container. To keep the bars soft, add a piece of fresh bread to the airtight container.
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