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To make these bars, you need a few key items. Here’s the list: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter) - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/4 cup cocoa powder - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract These ingredients work together to create a tasty, chewy snack full of flavor and nutrition. You can customize your granola bars for extra fun. Here are some great options: - 1/4 cup chia seeds (for added nutrition) - Nuts like almonds or walnuts (for crunch) - Dried fruit like cranberries or apricots (for sweetness) - Different sweeteners like agave or brown sugar Feel free to mix these in to make the bars your own! These chocolate coconut granola bars are not just delicious; they are also good for you. Each bar has: - Approximately 150 calories - 6 grams of protein - 8 grams of healthy fats - 3 grams of fiber This makes them a great choice for a quick snack. You get energy without too much sugar. Enjoy these bars as a treat or a pick-me-up during your day. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your granola bars. Next, grab an 8x8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides. This helps you lift the bars out later. In a large bowl, mix your rolled oats, unsweetened shredded coconut, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if you want), and sea salt. Stir well until everything blends nicely. In a small saucepan, combine almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Heat it on low for 2-3 minutes, stirring non-stop. You want it smooth and warm, not hot. After removing it from heat, add the vanilla extract and mix it in. Pour this wet mixture over your dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix everything until the oats and coconut are well coated. Then, fold in the mini chocolate chips gently. Transfer the mixture to your lined baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly with a spatula. This helps the bars hold together. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for slightly golden edges and a set center. Once baked, take it out and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the granola out. After it cools completely, slice it into your preferred bar sizes. Store these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness. For more details, check the Full Recipe. To keep your Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method helps retain moisture and prevents them from getting hard. If you live in a warm area, keep them in the fridge. They can last up to a week at room temperature and up to two weeks in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay tasty for up to three months. When it comes to serving, I like to get creative. Stack the bars on a nice plate or wrap them individually for a grab-and-go snack. You could drizzle some melted chocolate on top for extra flair. Adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts can also enhance their look. If you want to make them feel fancy, serve them with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt on the side. Avoid overmixing the ingredients. If you mix too much, the bars can become tough. Make sure to press the mixture down firmly in the baking dish. This step ensures they hold together well after baking. Don't skip the cooling time either! Letting them cool completely makes slicing easier and helps them maintain their shape. Lastly, keep an eye on the oven. They should be golden at the edges but not burned in the center. For the full recipe, check out the instructions detailed above. {{image_4}} You can get creative with your Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars. Try adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy bite. If you want a sweeter touch, swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup. You can even toss in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist. For a minty flavor, add a drop of peppermint extract. Each variation can change the taste and texture, making your snacks exciting! If you have allergies, don't worry! You can make these bars nut-free. Just use sunflower seed butter instead of almond or peanut butter. For sweetening, you can use brown rice syrup as a safe option. Also, check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty treat without worry. These granola bars are great on their own, but you can make them even better! Try crumbling a bar over yogurt for a quick breakfast. You can blend them into smoothies for added texture and flavor. Want a fun dessert? Top a scoop of ice cream with crumbled bars and fresh fruit. These ideas will help you enjoy your granola bars in new ways! For the full recipe, check out the steps above to make your delicious snack. If you want to skip making your own bars, many brands offer great options. Look for brands like: - Nature Valley - KIND - RXBAR - Larabar These brands often provide tasty chocolate coconut granola bars. They are easy to find in stores or online. Making your own chocolate coconut granola bars is fun and easy. You control the ingredients and can make them healthier. Store-bought bars are quick and convenient, but they may have added sugars and preservatives. Homemade bars allow you to adjust flavors and textures to your liking. When choosing pre-made bars, check the nutrition label. Look for options with: - High fiber content - Low added sugars - Simple ingredients Some bars may have high calories but low nutrients. Always read labels to make the best choice for your health. Remember, while store-bought bars are great for convenience, homemade bars, like the full recipe I shared, can be healthier and more satisfying. Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When you want to eat one, let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. These granola bars stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just make sure you keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale. If you don't have almond butter, peanut butter works great too. You can also use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Each will give the bars a different flavor but will still be tasty! Yes! You can use maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey. Each sweetener will add its own unique taste, so feel free to experiment. Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, they are gluten-free. Always check the label to ensure no cross-contamination occurs during processing. Absolutely! You can mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder. This addition will boost the protein content and make these bars even more filling. You can skip the cocoa powder and chocolate chips. Try adding dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, instead for a fruity twist. You can also add nuts or seeds for crunch. Once the bars have cooled completely, use a sharp knife to cut them. A warm knife can help make cleaner cuts. Try to slice them into even pieces for better serving. For extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate or nut butter on top. You can also sprinkle some extra coconut or nuts before the bars cool for added texture and flavor. Yes! You can make no-bake versions by using the same ingredients. Simply mix them and refrigerate until set. This makes them super easy and quick to prepare! You can find the Full Recipe above to make your own delicious bars! You now know how to make Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars. We covered the key ingredients and different ways to customize your bars. I shared tips on storing, serving, and avoiding common mistakes. You can also explore fun flavor variations and allergy-friendly options. Lastly, I compared homemade bars to store-bought choices. Making these bars can be fun and rewarding. Enjoy your delicious snacks anytime!

Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars

Looking for a delicious and healthy snack? Try these irresistible Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars! Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almond butter, and shredded coconut, they are perfect for on-the-go munching. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a batch of 12 tasty bars that are great for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup chia seeds (optional for added nutrition)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a few inches of overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if using), and sea salt. Stir these ingredients together until evenly mixed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan set over low heat, add almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and completely combined, ensuring it does not overheat and burn.

        Incorporate Flavor: Once the mixture has melted down, remove the saucepan from heat. Add in the vanilla extract, stirring it in until evenly distributed.

          Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly until all the oats and coconut are well coated with the sticky mixture.

            Add Chocolate: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly spread throughout the mixture.

              Prepare for Baking: Transfer the granola mixture to the lined baking dish. Using a spatula, press the mixture down firmly and evenly across the bottom of the dish to ensure even baking.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the edges are slightly golden and the center feels set.

                  Cooling: Once finished, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola out of the dish.

                    Slice and Store: After cooling completely, use a sharp knife to slice the granola into your desired bar sizes. Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for prolonged freshness.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the bars stacked on a plate or wrapped individually for a fun grab-and-go snack. Consider drizzling a little melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of indulgence!