Chewy Homemade Granola Bars with Fresh Wild Blueberries (all the way from Michigan) and Protein

Say goodbye to overly processed energy bars and hello to a homemade delight that not only nourishes your body but also satisfies your taste buds.

These granola bars are thick, chewy, and much better than anything you can buy. Once you make them for yourself, I’m certain you’ll understand why!

In the fast-paced world we live in, having a quick and wholesome source of energy is essential to power through our busy days. Store-bought energy bars can be convenient, but they often come with a long list of ingredients and added sugars.

Why not take matters into your own hands and create something both delicious and nutritious?

Enter homemade chewy granola bars with the delightful addition of fresh wild blueberries and an energy-boosting protein punch.

Because I am using fresh blueberries, you’l want to store these I the refrigerator or wrap individually and freeze. Feel free to use dried wild blueberries which I most often find at Trader’s Joes.

Also be sure to check out my other homemade treats…

I love my raw homemade granolas, my protein bars and protein bites. 

Benefits of Your Homemade Granola Bars:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and fresh wild blueberries, these bars are rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Protein Boost: The addition of protein powder and nut butter provides a satisfying source of protein, which helps keep you full and energized.
3. Natural Sweetness: Honey or maple syrup offers natural sweetness, avoiding the need for excessive sugars often found in store-bought bars.
4. Customizable: Feel free to tailor the recipe to your preferences by swapping out ingredients or adjusting sweetness levels.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a simple yet satisfying recipe that will have you reaching for these bars whenever you need a burst of energy.

CHEWEY HOMEMADE GRANOLA BARS WITH FRESH BLUEBERRIES & PROTEIN

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups rolled oats (I used sprouted)
• 1 cup sprouted nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (for binding and sweetness)
• 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter (for creaminess and protein)
• 1/2 cup fresh wild blueberries (for a burst of flavor and antioxidants)
• 1/4 cup protein powder (such as whey, pea, or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for warmth)
• A pinch of salt (to enhance flavors)
• Optional: dark chocolate chips for an extra treat

DIRECTIONS:

1. Prep Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Toast Nuts and Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the nuts and seeds until they’re fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances their flavors and adds crunch to your bars. Let them cool before chopping them coarsely. I used my sprouted almonds.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the honey/maple syrup and almond/peanut butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add in the vanilla extract and give it a good stir. OR heat on stove on low stirring constantly.  I do this method.  
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped toasted nuts and seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
5. Create the Bar Mixture: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated. Gently fold in the fresh wild blueberries and dark chocolate chips if you’re using them.
6. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased if necessary), press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan.
7. Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the bars have set and are firm to the touch.
8. Cut and Enjoy: Once the bars are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and slice into your desired bar size. Wrap each bar individually for grab-and-go convenience.

Do you love making homemade treats?

Have you tried adding protein powder before?