Granola bars (or granolers, as we call them) are a staple in our house. We’re always up for trying a new brand or flavor, especially if it’s on sale. Because let’s face it: granolers can be expensive. I’m not sure why it took us this long to finally make our own, but I’m kicking myself for not making these sooner! The votes are in: these candy granola bars are the most delicious homemade treat ever. (This is just a guess, but it might be the combination of peanut butter, maple syrup, and dark chocolate chips.) You ready to give it a whirl? Here goes!

Peanut Butter Choco-Chip Granolers – adapted from Minimalist Baker

Ingredients:

• 1 cup packed dates, pitted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup all natural peanut butter
• 3/4 cup raw almonds
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Method:

1. Toast oats in a 350 degree oven for 15 minutes. This is optional, but it gives them a nice nutty, toasted flavor.
2. Pulverize the dates in a food processor until they form a ball (see photo). Transfer to a large mixing bowl and stir in the oats, nuts, and chocolate chips. Mix with a wooden spoon, making sure to break down the dates so they are evenly incorporated.
3. Warm the maple syrup and peanut butter in a small saucepan. (Try to resist the urge to eat it with a spoon.) Pour over the dry ingredients and stir quickly to coat. The chocolate chips will get a little melty and that is a-okay!
4. Transfer to an 8×8 or 9×9 pan lined with parchment and top with another piece of parchment or plastic wrap. Using your hands, pat down into a uniform square about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Still covered, store them in the freezer for about 15 minutes or until set. Remove and cut into 10-12 bars. Store in an airtight container or bag in the fridge to keep fresh, or in the freezer for longer term storage.

Seriously, folks. If you’re the peanut-butter-chocolate type, this is right. up. your. alley.

Wait until they are completely set before cutting them. Otherwise, there will be some crumbling and you might have to eat the broken pieces. Dreadful.

This recipe is really flexible. You can use gluten free oats for a GF option. Or use vegan chocolate chips for a vegan option. Or swap out the almonds for another nut or the maple syrup for a different sweetener (honey or agave). You can’t really go wrong here.

I can’t attest to how long they will last in the freezer because, let’s be real, we ate them all in about 4 days.

Enjoy!