Homemade KIND Healthy Grains Granola Bar Oats & Honey w/Toasted Coconut Recipe: A Nutritious, Customizable Classic

Category: Granola Bars

Introduction

KIND Healthy Grains Granola Bars are a beloved snack for health-conscious individuals, offering a perfect blend of whole grains, natural sweeteners, and delicious flavors. The Oats & Honey with Toasted Coconut variety is particularly popular, combining the warmth of honey, the crunch of toasted coconut, and the chewiness of whole grain oats. While store-bought options are convenient, making them at home allows for customization, better control over ingredients, and a more budget-friendly solution.

I remember my first attempt at making homemade granola bars. I was frustrated with the store-bought options either being too sugary or too crumbly. After months of experimentation, I finally nailed the recipe, and it’s been a staple in my household ever since. This homemade version not only tastes identical to the original but also offers improved nutrition and flexibility to suit your dietary preferences.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own granola bars at home provides several advantages:

• Customization: Adjust the sweetness, add your favorite nuts or seeds, or use gluten-free ingredients.
• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce the amount of sugar, use higher-quality oils, and incorporate more whole grains.
• Cost-Effective: Homemade granola bars can be made in bulk, saving you money over time.

Personal Anecdote

I first fell in love with KIND bars during a hiking trip when a friend shared one with me. The combination of flavors and the satisfying chewiness kept me energized throughout the day. But when I checked the ingredient list, I realized there was room for improvement—less sugar and more wholesome ingredients. That’s when I decided to create my own version. After countless trials, I perfected this recipe, and it’s now a favorite among my family and friends.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:5 minutes
• **Total Time:20 minutes
• **Yield:8-10 bars

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) mixed whole grains (such as quinoa, amaranth, and puffed rice)
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds
• 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) pure honey
• 2 tbsp (30ml) coconut oil
• 1 tbsp (15ml) brown rice syrup (optional, for better binding)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Toast the Coconut and Nuts:

• In a small pan, lightly toast the unsweetened shredded coconut and chopped almonds over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool.

• Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the oats, mixed grains, toasted coconut, almonds, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.

• Prepare Wet Ingredients:

• In a small saucepan, warm the honey, coconut oil, brown rice syrup (if using), and vanilla extract over low heat, stirring until smooth.

• Combine Ingredients:

• Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. Let the mixture cool slightly to handle.

• Press into Pan:

• Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish using a spatula or your hands until it’s evenly spread and tightly packed.

• Chill and Cut:

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Cut into 8-10 bars. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace half the honey with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or monk fruit syrup.
• Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure all grains are gluten-free.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.

Pro Tips

• Toasting Matters: Always toast your coconut and nuts for a deeper flavor.
• Press Firmly: The tighter you press the mixture into the pan, the less likely the bars are to crumble.
• Customize Wisely: Experiment with different grains, nuts, and spices to create your perfect flavor combination.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?

  • Yes! Use fresh nuts and seeds, but ensure they’re toasted for the best flavor.

• What if the bars are too crumbly?

  • Add a little more honey or brown rice syrup and press the mixture firmly into the pan.

• How do I store them?

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

• Can I make them vegan?

  • Yes! Replace honey with maple syrup and ensure all ingredients are vegan-friendly.

• Can I scale the recipe?

  • Absolutely! Double or triple the recipe and use a larger pan.

Serving Suggestions

• On-the-Go Snack: Perfect for hiking, school lunches, or busy days.
• Breakfast Option: Pair with a piece of fruit for a quick, nutritious breakfast.
• Post-Workout Fuel: The combination of carbs and protein makes it ideal for post-exercise recovery.

Conclusion

This homemade KIND Healthy Grains Granola Bar recipe offers a delicious, healthier alternative to store-bought options. With customizable ingredients and improved nutrition, it’s a snack you can feel good about eating. Try it today and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something wholesome and delicious for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know how you make it your own!