Homemade Bear Naked Bites Honey Oats Recipe: Crunchy, Chewy, and Customizable

Introduction

Bear Naked, a beloved brand in the granola world, offers a delightful snack with their Honey Oats Bites—crunchy on the outside, chewy within, and bursting with honey sweetness. These bites are a favorite among snack enthusiasts, perfect for on-the-go energy boosts. Making them at home allows for customization, healthier ingredients, and cost savings, all while capturing that signature taste.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own Honey Oats Bites offers numerous benefits. You can reduce sugar content, incorporate diverse ingredients for added nutrition, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade snack. Plus, it's budget-friendly and fun to tailor to your taste preferences.

Personal Anecdote

I recall first trying Bear Naked's Honey Oats Bites and being hooked by their perfect balance of crunch and chew. However, wanting a healthier option, I embarked on recreating them at home. After several trials, I nailed the recipe, achieving a snack that's not only delicious but also better for you.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:25 minutes
• **Yield:20-25 bites

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups (300g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup (30g) chia seeds

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (170g) honey
• 2 tbsp (30g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 tbsp (15g) coconut oil
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries or raisins

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread oats and almonds on a baking sheet, toasting for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.

• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan, warm honey, peanut butter, coconut oil, vanilla, and salt over low heat, stirring until smooth.

• Combine Mixtures: In a large bowl, mix toasted oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds. Pour wet ingredients over, stirring until everything is well-coated.

• Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in dried fruit if using.

• Form Bites: With damp hands, shape mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on parchment-lined trays, refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to set.

• Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 2 months.

Variations

• Low-Sugar: Use 1/4 cup honey and more nut butter.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Fruity: Include more dried fruits for chewiness.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free oats.

Pro Tips

• Toasting: Enhances flavor and texture.
• Nut Butter Consistency: Ensure it's creamy for the right bind.
• Storage: Keep cool to maintain crunch.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Substitutions: Replace almonds with other nuts or seeds.
• Texture Issues: Add more honey if too dry or oats if too sticky.
• Shelf Life: Store in the fridge for freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a snack, add to yogurt, or sprinkle on oatmeal for a crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Making Honey Oats Bites at home is rewarding, offering a healthier, customizable snack. Share your creations and enjoy the delicious benefits of homemade goodness!