We love turning simple pantry staples into crunchy sweet treats. Our baked granola bites have everything we crave: a nutty taste sweet bursts of dried fruit and a drizzle of honey that ties it all together.
We keep a stash on hand for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups because they’re too good to pass up. A quick toast in the oven brings out those cozy flavors. Let’s enjoy a wholesome snack that keeps us fueled and happy.
Tools And Equipment
We gather a few simple items to ensure that our baked granola bites come together smoothly. We find that each piece of equipment plays an important role in helping us achieve consistent results.
- Mixing Bowl
We use a large bowl to blend our dry ingredients. A sturdy bowl helps us combine everything evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements keep our bites balanced. We rely on these tools when adding ingredients like oats, nuts and sweeteners.
- Baking Sheet
We turn to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It holds the granola mixture in place and prevents sticking.
- Rubber Spatula
This tool is key for scraping every bit of sticky mixture from the bowl. We also use it to press and shape the bites before baking.
| Tool | Function | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Blending all dry ingredients | Choose a deep size for easy mixing |
| Baking Sheet | Holding the shaped granola bites | Line with parchment for easy cleanup |
| Measuring Cups | Ensuring ingredients are precise | Level each cup for consistent portions |
| Measuring Spoons | Adding smaller amounts and seasonings | Use a set for dry or liquid measurements |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping and shaping | Coat with oil if mixture is extra sticky |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups | Old-fashioned variety recommended |
| Chopped nuts | 1/2 cup | Almonds or pecans for extra crunch |
| Dried cranberries or raisins | 1/4 cup | Any sweet dried fruit works |
| Honey | 1/4 cup | Warm slightly for easy mixing |
| Brown sugar (optional) | 2 tbsp | Adjust sweetness to taste |
| Peanut butter | 2 tbsp | Smooth or crunchy texture is fine |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | Adds aroma without overwhelming the bites |
| Sea salt | 1/4 tsp | Lifts and balances the overall flavor |
| Coconut oil (melted) | 1 tbsp | Keeps our bites moist when baked |
Directions
We are ready to bring our granola mixture together. We gather our ingredients and move into simple steps.
Prep
We line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. We gather rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, and warmed honey. We whisk everything in our mixing bowl until the mixture is sticky. We use our rubber spatula to scrape the sides and fold in any optional ingredients like peanut butter or melted coconut oil.
Bake
We preheat our oven to 350°F. We scoop portions of the mixture onto the baking sheet and gently press them into round shapes. We place them in the oven and bake until golden brown. We follow the table below for time and temperature:
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bake | 350°F | 12 to 15 minutes |
Cool And Portion
We remove our baked granola bites from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. We transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once firm we enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container for later.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
We love preparing extra batches of our baked granola bites so we can grab them on hectic days. Follow these steps for storing leftovers:
- Let the bites cool completely to avoid trapping moisture.
- Place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper.
- Keep them at room temperature for up to five days or in the fridge for seven days.
If we prefer to freeze them, we wrap each bite in plastic wrap and store them in a seal-proof freezer bag. They stay fresh for up to three months. When we want a quick snack, we let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven. This method helps preserve their crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Airtight container at room temperature | Up to 5 days |
| Refrigerator | Up to 7 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Conclusion
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed making these granola bites. They offer a simple way to satisfy cravings while giving us freedom to play with favorite flavors and textures. Packed with wholesome goodness they’re a convenient solution for morning commutes or quick energy boosts. We love that they’re easy to store and taste great straight from the freezer or warmed to bring out their nutty notes. Whether we’re rushing out the door or relaxing at home these little bites keep us satisfied without weighing us down. It’s a treat we can count on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are baked granola bites?
These are small, crunchy snacks made from rolled oats, nuts, and sweet dried fruit. A drizzle of honey helps bind the ingredients while adding natural sweetness. They’re easy to bake and perfect for busy mornings or quick energy boosts.
What equipment do I need?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a rubber spatula. The mixing bowl holds the ingredients, measuring tools ensure accuracy, the baking sheet prevents sticking, and the spatula helps you scrape and shape the mixture.
How do I store leftovers?
Let them cool completely, then place in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They stay fresh for five days at room temperature, or up to seven days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely. Try different chopped nuts (like almonds, pecans, or walnuts) or your favorite dried fruits for added flavor. You can also add peanut butter, vanilla extract, and even coconut oil for extra moisture.
How do I reheat frozen bites?
Simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven. This helps restore their crunchy texture while preserving their nutty and sweet flavors. They’re ready to enjoy once they’re slightly heated through and crisp.