This week I’m sharing with you my Homemade Icebox Granola Bars. Now, if you’re the nuts-and-berries type like me, then their picture alone is probably enough to compel you to make them. If not, then let’s see if I can give you a little nudge.
First off, I worked hard to balance the salt-to-sweet ratio in these bars…and who doesn’t love a little salty-sweet snack?! You’ve got sweet coming from a variety of ingredients: ripe banana, honey, dried fruit, and a touch of brown sugar. The sweetness doesn’t overwhelm like some store-bought bars, but rather comes through softly with the flavors of its naturally-derived ingredients. Then, there’s a touch of sea salt baked into the bars and sprinkled over top (which I think makes them!). This finish doesn’t make them salty, but rather, makes them interesting! Honestly, I think a sprinkling of flake sea salt is the ingredient that most store-bought bars are missing.
Second, the whole “icebox” thing is a texture and flavor game-changer. There are a lot of things that turn into taste-less, color-less bricks in the freezer, but not these bars! They become (and stay) incredibly chewy under frigid conditions, and all of the ingredients maintain their original bright flavor and color. Plus, storing them in the freezer means that they last longer and you can pull one out whenever you want…to eat right on the spot or carry with you. (I put mine in a little insulated pouch and take them cold, to-go).
Lastly, if you need a drizzle or “jacket” of chocolate to make them more your style, then go for it! There’s nothing stopping you, and—in my book—they still qualify as a healthy, energizing snack even with this added touch.
Convinced yet? Maybe take one last look at their picture. If you bake a batch now, they’ll be in the freezer come January 1st and, believe me, you’ll feel a lot better about making that New Year’s resolution. Happy 2018!
Click here to give my Homemade Icebox Granola Bars a try and tell me what you think!
