Chewy Miso Maple Granola Bars

These granola bars incorporate a unique twist with miso and maple syrup, giving them a savory-sweet depth that makes them utterly irresistible. Perfect for snacks, breakfast, or post-workout fuel!

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your favorite), roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1/2 cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or sunflower)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped if large
• Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the bars out later.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and salt. Mix until well combined.

3. Create the Wet Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey (or maple syrup), miso paste, and nut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.

4. Combine and Stir: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until all the dry ingredients are well coated. Then, fold in the dried fruits and optional chocolate chips.

5. Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or your hands to ensure the mixture holds together well.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, cut into bars or squares.

8. Store: Store your granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Flavor Profile

These granola bars offer a delightful blend of nutty, sweet, and slightly salty flavors thanks to the honey or maple syrup and miso. The chewy texture from the oats and fruits contrasted with the crunch of nuts and seeds makes them a satisfying snack.