Easy Rolled Oats & Almonds Recipe – Date Raisin Granola Bars

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Rolled Oats & Almonds Recipe – Date Raisin Granola Bars

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s for a granola bar that’s become a total staple in my house. Honestly, I first made these when my kids were little and needed a quick, healthy snack, and they’ve been asking for them ever since! They’re super easy to whip up, packed with goodness, and seriously delicious. Plus, the aroma while they bake is just heavenly. Let’s get started, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average store-bought granola bars. They’re wonderfully chewy, perfectly sweet (but not too sweet!), and full of wholesome ingredients. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a healthy snack on the go. And the best part? You control exactly what goes into them, so you can feel good about what you’re eating.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing granola bars:

• 2 cups rolled oats (approx. 150g)
• ¼ cup almonds, chopped (approx. 30g)
• ¼ cup dates, chopped (approx. 40g)
• 2 tablespoons raisins (approx. 15g)
• 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar (approx. 18g)
• 3 tablespoons honey (approx. 45ml)
• Pinch of salt
• 3 drops vanilla essence
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (approx. 30ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips I’ve picked up over the years…

Rolled Oats: Types & Benefits

Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) are the best choice here. They give the bars a lovely chewy texture. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but the bars will be a bit softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended – they don’t bind well. Oats are fantastic for you, full of fiber and keeping you feeling full for longer!

Almonds: Regional Varieties & Nutritional Value

I love using almonds for their subtle nutty flavour and satisfying crunch. You can use any variety you like – Californian almonds are readily available, but Kashmiri almonds are particularly prized for their sweetness. Almonds are a great source of Vitamin E and healthy fats.

Dates: Exploring Different Date Types for Sweetness

Dates add a lovely natural sweetness and chewiness. Medjool dates are my favourite – they’re soft and caramel-like. If you’re using drier dates, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping to make them easier to work with.

Honey: Sourcing & Flavor Profiles

The honey adds a beautiful golden hue and a lovely floral sweetness. I prefer using local honey whenever possible – it supports local beekeepers and the flavour is often more complex. Different floral sources will give different flavours, so experiment!

Cooking Oil: Choosing the Right Oil for Baking

I usually use a neutral-flavoured oil like sunflower or canola oil. Coconut oil also works well, but it will impart a slight coconut flavour.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get baking! It’s really simple, I promise.

1. First, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, chopped dates, raisins, salt, and brown sugar. Give it a good mix!
3. Now, add the honey, one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps it distribute evenly.
4. Stir in the cooking oil and vanilla essence until everything is nicely coated.
5. Line a baking tray with parchment paper – this is essential for easy cleanup! Spread the mixture in an even layer.
6. Bake for 25-28 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes after the first 15 minutes. This ensures everything cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
7. Remove from the oven and fluff gently with a fork. Let it cool completely – this is important for getting that perfect crispness.
8. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. (If they last that long, that is!)

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the parchment paper! Seriously, it’s a lifesaver.
• Stirring halfway through is key to even baking.
• Letting the granola cool completely is crucial for achieving a nice, crisp texture.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Granola Bars

Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. It works beautifully! My vegan friend swears by this swap.

Gluten-Free Granola Bars (Oat Certification)

Make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats if you have a gluten intolerance. Oats can sometimes be processed in facilities that also handle wheat.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

If you prefer a less sweet granola bar, reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar. You can also add a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce for extra moisture and sweetness.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Diwali Snacks)

During Diwali, I love adding a pinch of saffron and a few chopped pistachios for a festive touch. It’s a beautiful and delicious treat!

Spice Level Variations (Adding Cinnamon or Cardamom)

A dash of cinnamon or cardamom adds a lovely warmth and flavour. About ½ teaspoon is perfect.

Serving Suggestions

These granola bars are fantastic on their own, but they’re also great with a glass of milk or a cup of chai. They’re perfect for breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or even a post-workout boost.

Storage Instructions

Store the cooled granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage – just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What type of oats works best for this recipe?

Rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) are the best choice for a chewy texture.

Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or cashews would all be delicious.

Can I make this granola bar recipe without honey?

Yes, you can! Maple syrup or agave nectar are great vegan alternatives.

How can I prevent the granola bars from burning?

Stirring every 5 minutes after the first 15 minutes helps ensure even cooking and prevents burning.

What is the best way to store homemade granola bars to maintain their crispness?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I add seeds like chia or flax to this recipe?

Definitely! A tablespoon or two of chia or flax seeds adds extra nutrients and a nice texture.