Granola Bars

NATIONAL GRANOLA BAR DAY

Each year on January 21st, National Granola Bar Day recognizes the considerable nutrition and energy found in one wholesome granola bar.

A basic granola bar includes whole grain (usually oats, though quinoa and barley can be used as well), fruit or nuts and honey, molasses, agave nectar, or syrup. The bar can also include butter or nut butter. Flavor and nutrition benefit from a variety of combinations.

When making granola bars, mix the ingredients, and press them into a pan. When the ingredients set, cut them into bars. For a crispy bar, the mixture is baked. Softer, more chewy versions are left raw or only partially cooked. Additionally, they can be stored in sealed containers and frozen for long-term use.

PACKED WITH ENERGY

The ingredients pack granola bars with energy. Additionally, these little bars of grains and complex sugars offer convenience, too. Easily stored in a pocket while on a hiking or biking trail, the wrapper goes out with you. While considered a healthy food by some, the bars are high in calories. Hikers, bicyclists, and fitness enthusiasts add granola bars to their diet as a way to give a boost of energy. Despite their high calories, they offer a more healthful alternative to a candy bar for those of us who don’t hit the trails very often.

Outside of the United States, granola bars are called by various names; flapjack, muesli bar, and a cereal bar.

MAKE YOUR OWN GRANOLA BARS

While mixing up a pan of granola bars, try some variety. Mix up the nuts, grains, and fruit. Don’t hesitate to try agave in place of honey. Try quinoa, millet, and buckwheat. They will add another level of texture and nuttiness to your granola. Dried cranberries, coconut, dates, apricots offer a variety of natural sweetness without adding sugar.

HEALTHY? YES BUT READ INGREDIENTS

Many people consider granola bars a convenient and healthy snack and enjoy their flavor and versatility. In some cases, granola bars can be a good source of fiber and protein to help curb cravings between meals. However, some contain as much sugar, carbs, and calories as candy bars.

NUTRITIONAL SNACK

Granola bars are made from ingredients like oats, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, honey, coconut, and chocolate chips. The nutritional value of granola bars can vary greatly depending on the brand and ingredients used. Though many varieties are loaded with extra sugar and calories, several healthier options are available as well and Morton Williams carries a wide variety of bars.

GREAT FOR WEIGHT CONTROL

Granola bars are convenient and preportioned, which could benefit weight control. They’re also often made using oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, which can improve heart health and blood sugar control. Healthy granola bars should contain a good amount of protein and fiber with little added sugar and fewer calories. They’re also easy to make at home and require just a few simple ingredients. Granola bars are a convenient, flavorful, and portable snack.

Stop in your favorite Morton Williams and pick up some granola bars or order online for home delivery.