Just Like Nature Valley's Oats 'n Honeys Bars

My Homemade Take on Nature Valley Oats 'n Honey Bars

As a busy working mom, finding time for myself is a luxury, but indulging in a sweet treat is a necessity, even if it's just a small, well-deserved break. That's where my love for homemade granola bars comes in. I've always been a fan of Nature Valley Oats 'n Honey bars, that perfect balance of crunchy oats and sweet honey, but let’s be honest, store-bought snacks can be quite expensive, and often contain ingredients I'd rather avoid. So, I embarked on a mission to recreate that delicious taste at home, with a healthier twist and a whole lot of love.

This recipe is my go-to for a quick and satisfying snack. It's incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. The best part? I get to control the ingredients, ensuring they’re as wholesome as possible. The result is a granola bar that tastes just as good, if not better, than the store-bought version, but without the guilt. It's the perfect combination of chewy and crunchy, sweet and subtly salty – a delightful symphony of textures and flavors that keeps me coming back for more.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Want to add some nuts for extra crunch? Go for it! Prefer a different type of sweetener? Experiment! I sometimes swap the canola oil for coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist. The possibilities are endless, making this the perfect recipe for those who enjoy a little creative freedom in the kitchen.

Making these bars is a therapeutic process for me. The simple act of measuring, mixing, and pressing the ingredients into the pan is a calming ritual. It's a moment of mindfulness amidst the chaos of daily life, a tiny pocket of peace where I can focus on the present moment and the deliciousness that is about to unfold. The aroma of warm honey and oats wafting from the oven is pure bliss. It's like a warm hug in the form of a granola bar.

Beyond the personal satisfaction of creating something delicious and healthy, these homemade bars are also a great way to save money. Store-bought granola bars can quickly add up, especially if you're a frequent snacker like me. Making your own lets you enjoy your favorite treat without breaking the bank. And let's not forget the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your food, a peace of mind that's priceless.

I often make a double batch and store them in an airtight container. They're perfect for quick breakfasts, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even a satisfying dessert. They’re also a great option for packing lunches for myself and my children. The kids love them, and knowing they're enjoying a wholesome, homemade treat makes me feel even better about my baking adventure. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, fostering happy moments and a sense of connection, one delicious bar at a time.

So, whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home mom, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and healthy snack, give this recipe a try. You might just discover a new favorite treat! It's more than just a recipe; it's a little piece of homemade happiness. And isn’t that what life is all about?

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 350 F. Line an 9x9 inch square pyrex dish with parchment paper.
• Combine the oats, rice crispies, cornmeal, salt and baking soda in a medium size mixing bowl.
• In a glass measuring cup or microwave safe bowl mix the honey and canola (or coconut oil). Place in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir to melt the coconut butter then add the vanilla and brown sugar.
• Whisk to combine and then mix the wet with the dry ingredients.
• Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared pyrex dish that is lined with parchment paper, and press down hard. (Spray or oil the bottom of a measuring cup to prevent sticking).
• Place in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The bars will be golden on top.
• Remove the bars (if your bars seem a little loose, push down again to ensure they hold together) and let cool in the pan for 10-20 minutes.
• Remove from the pan and cut while the bars are firm, but still somewhat soft.
• Place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
• Store in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic wrap.