Featuring a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, this trail mix granola bars recipe is a true delight. Hearty oats, crunchy pretzels, and sweet raisins create a diverse texture, while the addition of m&ms and a honey-peanut butter blend bring a pleasing sweetness. It's a simple and tasty snack that's perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or mid-day munching.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples, but you might need to look for a few items while shopping. Puffed rice cereal can usually be found in the cereal aisle, and ground flax seed is often in the health food or baking section. Chunky peanut butter offers a delightful crunch to these bars, but feel free to substitute with creamy if you prefer. Don't forget the m&ms, a fun addition that adds a pop of color and a sweet chocolatey bite.
Trail Mix Granola Bars Ingredients
Puffed rice cereal: This light and airy ingredient adds a delightful crunch to your granola bars.
Regular oats: Oats form the base of these granola bars, providing a hearty texture and excellent source of fiber.
Ground flax seed: Flax seeds contribute a good dose of healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Raisins: These dried fruits bring a natural sweetness and chewiness to the bars.
Pretzels: The pretzels offer a nice salty contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Honey: Honey acts as a natural sweetener and helps to bind all the ingredients together.
Brown sugar: This adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to your granola bars.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
Chunky peanut butter: Chunky peanut butter gives a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Vanilla extract: This enhances the overall sweetness and flavor complexity.
Peanut m&ms: These add a fun pop of color and a sweet chocolatey bite.
One reader, Bridget Dyer says:
I absolutely love this trail mix granola bars recipe! It's the perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and sweet. The blend of puffed rice, oats, and peanut butter creates a delicious texture, and the addition of raisins and M&Ms adds a burst of flavor. It's my go-to snack for hiking and busy days!
Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Trail Mix Granola Bars
How to prepare the granola mixture: Combine the puffed rice cereal, oats, flaxseed, raisins, and pretzels in a bowl and stir to combine.
How to make the honey and peanut butter mixture: In a saucepan, heat the honey, brown sugar, and salt over medium heat, whisking until combined. Let it come to a boil for 45 seconds, then add the peanut butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
How to shape and refrigerate the granola bars: Gently pat the granola mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan, then refrigerate until firm.
How to cut the granola bars: After removing the firm granola from the fridge, flip the tray upside down onto a cutting board. Cut the granola in half lengthwise, then into bars of your desired size.
How to bake the granola bars: Place the bars onto a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes.
How to serve the granola bars: Let the bars cool before serving, and enjoy!
How To Make Trail Mix Granola Bars
These trail mix granola bars are not just good for breakfast but for snacks too! It’s made with flax seeds, pretzels, and more for a crispy treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2½cupsPuffed Rice Cereal
- 1¼cupsregular oats
- ¼cupground flax seed
- ⅓cupraisins
- ¼cuppretzels,chopped
- ½cuphoney
- ½cupbrown sugar
- ¼tspsalt
- ⅔cupchunky peanut butter
- 2tspvanilla extract
- ½cuppeanut M&Ms
Instructions
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Add the cereal, oats, flaxseed, raisins, and pretzels into a bowl. Stir to combine
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In a saucepan, add the honey, brown sugar, and salt over medium heat, then whisk until combined. Let it come to a boil for 45 seconds.
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Add in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Let the mixture cool for a couple of minutes.
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Add to the dry ingredients, then stir to combine. Let cool again, then add the M&Ms and mix to incorporate.
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Grease a 9×13-inch pan, then gently pat the mixture into the pan
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Refrigerate until it has firmed up.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Take the granola out of the fridge, then flip the tray upside down onto the cutting board. Cut the granola in half lengthwise, then into bars of choosing.
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Put the bars onto a baking sheet, then bake for 15 minutes
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Let cool, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 228.76kcal
- Fat: 8.44g
- Saturated Fat: 1.88g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.64g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.33g
- Carbohydrates: 34.60g
- Fiber: 2.82g
- Sugar: 18.85g
- Protein: 5.95g
- Cholesterol: 0.42mg
- Sodium: 86.60mg
- Calcium: 26.77mg
- Potassium: 175.93mg
- Iron: 1.90mg
- Vitamin A: 1.17µg
- Vitamin C: 0.20mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Trail Mix Granola Bars
When making these trail mix granola bars, it's important to let the mixture cool before adding the m&ms. If the mixture is too hot, the candy coating on the m&ms can melt and create a mess. Also, when pressing the mixture into the pan, be sure to apply even pressure to ensure the bars hold together well. If the bars are too loosely packed, they may crumble when cut.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Trail Mix Granola Bars
Prep ahead: Prepare all the dry ingredients and measure out the wet ingredients the night before to streamline the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop nuts, seeds, and dried fruits in a food processor to save time on prep work.
Batch cooking: Double or triple the recipe and freeze the extra granola bars for future use, saving time on making them again.
Substitute Ingredients For Trail Mix Granola Bars Recipe
puffed rice cereal - Substitute with quinoa puffs: Quinoa puffs have a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor, making them a suitable replacement for puffed rice cereal.
regular oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor.
ground flax seed - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds offer a similar nutritional profile and can be used as a one-to-one replacement for ground flax seeds in this recipe.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a slightly tart flavor and chewy texture, serving as a delicious alternative to raisins.
pretzels - Substitute with almonds: Chopped almonds can add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, replacing the texture and taste of pretzels in the granola bars.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a sweet, natural flavor and can be used as a substitute for honey in this recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar provides a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, making it a suitable replacement for brown sugar.
chunky peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter offers a creamy texture and nutty taste, serving as an alternative to chunky peanut butter.
peanut M&Ms - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a rich, indulgent flavor and can be used as a substitute for peanut M&Ms in the granola bars.
How to Beautifully Present Your Homemade Granola Bars
Elevate the granola bars: Begin by carefully cutting the granola bars into precise shapes, such as rectangles or squares, to showcase attention to detail and precision in presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzles: Use a delicate hand to drizzle melted chocolate or honey in an artistic manner over the granola bars, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Adorn the plate with vibrant and edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to introduce a pop of color and a visually stunning element to the dish.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the granola bars in a symmetrical and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that each component is thoughtfully placed for a harmonious presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the granola bars to stand out and become the focal point of the presentation.
Incorporate geometric shapes: Introduce geometric shapes, such as triangles or circles, using additional components like fruit slices or chocolate pieces to add an artistic and modern flair to the plating.
Highlight contrasting textures: Pair the granola bars with complementary textures, such as a quenelle of whipped cream or a scoop of sorbet, to create a visually dynamic and intriguing presentation.
Emphasize color contrast: Introduce vibrant and contrasting colors on the plate, such as a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of matcha powder, to enhance the visual appeal and create an eye-catching display.
Add a touch of gold leaf: Elevate the presentation by delicately placing edible gold leaf on the granola bars, adding a luxurious and opulent touch to the overall aesthetic.
Incorporate a mirror glaze: Introduce a mirror glaze element to the plate, creating a reflective and glossy surface that enhances the visual allure of the granola bars and elevates the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Trail Mix Granola Bars
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for heating and combining ingredients such as honey, brown sugar, and salt.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for stirring and folding ingredients together.
9x13-inch pan: This pan is used for shaping and setting the granola bar mixture before cutting and baking.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the granola bars for baking in the oven.
Cutting board: A cutting board is used for cutting the granola bars into individual portions.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the granola bars to give them a crispy texture.
How To Store and Freeze Your Homemade Trail Mix Granola Bars
Once the granola bars have cooled completely, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from sticking together and to maintain their freshness.
Place the wrapped granola bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help protect them from moisture and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from your refrigerator or freezer.
For short-term storage: Keep the granola bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.
For long-term storage: Place the wrapped and sealed granola bars in the freezer for up to 3 months. Freezing the bars will extend their shelf life and preserve their flavor and texture.
To thaw frozen granola bars, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. Alternatively, you can place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly.
If you prefer your granola bars to be slightly warm and crispy, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes after thawing.
Always ensure that the granola bars are completely cooled before storing them to prevent condensation from forming inside the container or wrapping, which can lead to soggy bars.
How To Reheat Leftover Granola Bars
To reheat leftover trail mix granola bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the texture and crunch of the oats, pretzels, and m&ms.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the granola bars on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you're only reheating a few bars.
For a softer, chewier texture, you can microwave the leftover granola bars. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking after each interval. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the honey and brown sugar to become too hot and potentially burn your mouth.
If you prefer a cold, firm texture, simply remove the trail mix granola bars from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before enjoying. This method is perfect for those who like their bars to have a more solid consistency.
Surprising Fact About the History of Granola Bars
The recipe contains peanut butter and honey, which are both excellent sources of energy and nutrients.
Is Making Trail Mix Granola Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this trail mix granola bars recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients. The use of pantry staples like oats, honey, and peanut butter can make it a budget-friendly option. However, the inclusion of specialty items like flax seed and peanut M&Ms may increase the overall cost. Considering the versatility and nutritional value, this recipe could be rated a 7/10 for its balance of cost and quality. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people may range from $10 to $15, factoring in the variation in ingredient prices across different regions.
Are Trail Mix Granola Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
The trail mix granola bars recipe contains a mix of healthy and unhealthy ingredients. On the positive side, it includes:
- Puffed rice cereal and oats, which provide complex carbohydrates and fiber
- Ground flax seed, a source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids
- Peanut butter, offering protein and healthy fats
- Raisins, which contribute natural sweetness and some nutrients
However, the recipe also contains several ingredients that may be considered less healthy:
- A significant amount of added sugars from honey, brown sugar, and M&Ms
- Pretzels, which are typically made from refined flour and contain added salt
- The overall sugar content and calorie density of the bars may be high
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar, or replace them with natural sweeteners like date paste or mashed ripe bananas
- Swap the peanut M&Ms for unsweetened dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apricots, to add flavor and nutrients without the extra sugar and artificial colors
- Replace the pretzels with a healthier crunchy element, like chopped nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds)
- Increase the proportion of oats and flax seed to boost the fiber content and nutritional value
- Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter to avoid added sugars and oils
By incorporating these changes, you can create a more balanced and nutritious granola bar that still satisfies your taste buds and provides energy for your trail adventures.
Editor's Opinion: Why Trail Mix Granola Bars Are a Fantastic Snack
The trail mix granola bars recipe is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and indulgent treats. The blend of puffed rice cereal, oats, and flaxseed provides a satisfying crunch, while the addition of raisins and pretzels offers a delightful contrast in texture. The use of honey, brown sugar, and peanut butter creates a luscious binding agent, and the peanut M&Ms add a playful touch of sweetness. The bars are easy to prepare and make for a convenient and delicious snack. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Enhance Your Trail Mix Granola Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Trail Mix Granola Bars
Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Trail Mix Granola Bars
Why trust this Trail Mix Granola Bars Recipe:
This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, providing a delightful crunch from the combination of puffed rice cereal and pretzels. The addition of raisins and peanut M&Ms brings a burst of sweetness, while the chunky peanut butter and ground flax seed contribute to a satisfying texture. With the use of honey and brown sugar, these bars are bound to be deliciously chewy. The combination of these high-quality ingredients ensures a delightful and nutritious snack that's perfect for any adventure.
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