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Most of us like to snack and,
judging from the huge selection in grocery stores, we like to snack on
granola bars. So, why not make our own. Homemade granola bars take about the same amount of time as
making homemade granola. The only difference is that instead of spreading
the granola mixture onto a baking sheet, it is pressed into a 9 x 13 inch
pan. These bars are loaded with oats, dried fruits, seeds, chocolate chips, and nuts that are completely
coated in a sweet and sticky mixture of honey, butter, brown sugar, and
vanilla. They are baked until set, and the only problem is
that, after they come out of the oven, we have to wait for them to
cool. These Granola Bars are crisp, yet still
chewy. If you like a granola bar that is more crisp, and less chewy, bake
the bars a few minutes longer. Now, we must talk about ingredients. First, the oats. I
prefer to use the thicker textured old fashioned rolled oats over the
quick cooking type. To the
oats we add unsweetened shredded coconut,
which is different than the more common 'sweetened' coconut sold in
plastic bags or cans in grocery stores. Unsweetened coconut has a more
pronounced coconut flavor and a dry (not sticky) texture. It is sold in health
food stores or specialty food stores.
Then there is the dried cranberries (or cherries). First, let me say that you can use other
dried fruits. Figs, prunes, apricots, and dates are excellent choices. When buying dried
fruits, try to buy in bulk form from a grocery store or natural food store
that has a high turnover. Not only will the fruit be fresher, but you can
see, smell, feel, and often taste the fruit to make sure it is fresh and
of high quality. Pre-packaged fruit can also be excellent but it is harder
to judge the quality of the fruit through the plastic bag. So be sure to
check the expiration date on the bag and look for dried fruit that is
plump, moist, and has good color. Never buy fruit that is dried out or
moldy.
Once all the oats, fruits, seeds, nuts,
chocolate chips, and spices are combined, the final step is to coat all the ingredients
with a delicious mixture of butter, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. These
ingredients must first be heated to boiling. Now, honey adds sweetness and
a unique flavor to the granola so it is important to use a honey that has
a flavor you enjoy. I like to use a mild flavored honey, like clover or
orange blossom, so it won't over power the other flavors in the granola
bars. Also, honey is very sticky, so before measuring, spray the
inside of the measuring cup with a non stick cooking spray or vegetable
oil. That way the honey will just slide out of the cup.
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