Homemade Granola Bars: A Simple, Nutritious Snack for RVers and Homesteaders

When living off the grid or on the road in an RV, it’s essential to have snacks that are easy to make, store well, and provide plenty of energy. These homemade granola bars check all the boxes. Packed with oats, nuts, and natural sweeteners, they’re not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a snack while hiking, or just a tasty treat around the homestead, these granola bars are customizable to your favorite ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: These granola bars require minimal ingredients and effort, perfect for anyone who values simplicity.

• Customizable: Swap out the nuts, dried fruits, or sweeteners to match your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Portable: Great for bringing along on hikes, road trips, or keeping in your kitchen for a quick snack.

• Long Shelf Life: Store these in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week, making them ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or a mix)

• 1/4 cup seeds (such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter

• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)

• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Toast the Dry Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread the oats, chopped nuts, and seeds on a baking sheet.

3. Toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re golden and fragrant. This step brings out a deeper flavor in the granola bars but is optional if you’re in a hurry.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

2. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and melted together, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips (if using).

2. Pour the honey and peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients.

3. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and mixed together.

Step 4: Press and Chill

1. Line a baking dish (8x8-inch or similar) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to lift the bars out later.

2. Pour the granola mixture into the pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or spatula. The firmer you press, the better the bars will hold together.

3. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture sets and hardens.

Step 5: Cut and Store

1. Once the mixture is firm, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper.

2. Cut the granola into bars or squares of your preferred size.

3. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

Customization Ideas:

• Add Protein: Mix in a tablespoon of protein powder to the wet ingredients for an added energy boost.

• Extra Crunch: Throw in some puffed rice cereal or coconut flakes for a light crunch.

• Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top before refrigerating for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips for Homesteaders and RVers:

• No Oven? No problem! If you’re in an RV or don’t want to heat up the house, skip the toasting step and mix the ingredients raw.

• Make Ahead: These bars can be made in large batches and frozen. Just wrap each bar individually, and they’ll be ready to grab whenever you need them.

• On-the-Go Snacks: Pack them in small, resealable bags for hikes, road trips, or a busy day on the homestead.

Conclusion:

These homemade granola bars are the perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re out on an adventure or just need a quick snack while working on your homestead, these bars provide the fuel you need. Plus, with so many customization options, you can make them exactly how you like!

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