Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe

If you’re like me and always on the hunt for a wholesome snack that feels indulgent yet nourishing, then you’re going to adore this Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe. These bars are packed with chewy dates, tart cherries, crunchy almonds, and a lovely hint of maple sweetness — perfect for energizing your day or just satisfying that mid-afternoon craving. Stick with me here because I’m about to share all the tips and tricks so you can make these bars perfectly every single time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how each ingredient plays a starring role in creating this balanced Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe — the oats and almonds add heartiness and crunch, while the dates and cherries bring natural sweetness with a pleasant tartness. A quick note before you shop: look for unsweetened dried tart cherries and natural almond butter for the cleanest flavor.

• Rolled oats: I always use old-fashioned rolled oats here because quick oats can make the texture too soft.
• Slivered almonds: Toast them lightly for extra flavor—you’ll smell the toasty goodness filling your kitchen!
• Pitted dates: Medjool dates work wonderfully thanks to their softness and natural caramel notes.
• Dried tart cherries: These give that signature tart kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Seeds: I like mixing flax, chia, hemp, and sesame for a nutrient boost and a bit of crunch.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps bind the bars together.
• Creamy salted natural almond butter: Just almonds and a pinch of salt—no added sugars or oils.
• Coconut oil: Helps everything stick and gives a subtle richness.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract (optional): For that warm, cozy aroma that feels like a hug in a bar.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe is how forgiving and adaptable it is. Whether you want to swap nuts, play with different dried fruits, or make it nut-free for a crowd, you can tweak the ingredients to match your taste and dietary needs.

• Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds and almond butter with pumpkin seeds and sunflower seed butter — I tried this for my niece and she loved it!
• Seasonal Twist: Swap dried cherries for dried cranberries or even chopped dried apricots in the summer for a fresh flavor.
• Add Some Spice: I sometimes sprinkle in cinnamon or cardamom, which adds cozy notes especially when making these in cooler months.
• Boost the Protein: Mix in a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder for an extra satisfying snack.

How to Make Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe

Step 1: Toast Your Oats and Almonds for That Perfect Crunch

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the rolled oats and slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast them for 10-12 minutes until they’re a beautiful golden brown. Toasting not only amps up the flavor but also helps give your bars that satisfying crunch you’ll want with every bite. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning — I’ve learned the hard way that a minute too long can ruin the whole batch!

Step 2: Blend Dates and Cherries Into a Sticky Mixture

While your oats and almonds cool down a bit, pop the pitted dates and dried tart cherries into a food processor. Pulse for about 20 seconds until you get small bits or the mixture starts clumping together in a tacky ball. This sticky fruit base is the magic glue for your bars. If your mixture isn’t sticky enough, especially if your dates are a bit dry, sometimes adding a teaspoon of warm water can help—but use it sparingly!

Step 3: Bring It All Together with the Syrup and Almond Butter Mix

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup, almond butter, and coconut oil. Stir steadily until everything feels smooth and creamy, then take it off the heat. Add a pinch of sea salt and your optional vanilla extract, stirring well to combine. This warm, flavorful syrup will hold your granola bars together and give them that lovely mellow sweetness without overwhelming.

Step 4: Mix, Pack, and Chill for Perfect Bars

Dump the toasted oats, almonds, seeds, and the date-cherry mixture into a large bowl. Pour the warm syrup blend over and mix thoroughly, breaking up the sticky bits so the ingredients are evenly coated. The mixture should be tacky and hold its shape if you squeeze it—if not, add a little more maple syrup or almond butter. Transfer the mix to your parchment-lined baking dish, cover it with another piece of parchment, and press down firmly using the bottom of a glass or wooden spoon. Packing it tight here is the secret to bars that don’t crumble when sliced. Pop it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to set.

Step 5: Slice and Store Your Granola Bars

Once chilled and firm, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment and slice into 12 even bars. I like to store mine in an airtight container in the fridge, where they last up to two weeks (if they even last that long!). You can also freeze them to keep handy for months. These bars travel really well — just keep them cool, and you’ll have a perfect snack ready wherever you go.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe

Garnishes

I sometimes sprinkle extra dried cherries or a few slivered almonds on top before pressing the mixture into the pan, just for a pretty finishing touch and a little extra texture that makes these bars feel special every time.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a creamy yogurt or a small bowl of fresh berries for a balanced snack or light breakfast. I’ve even served them alongside a cup of herbal tea as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I love cutting these into smaller bite-size squares and arranging them on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit and nuts. They’re great crowd-pleasers, especially when you add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top for a little extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ve stayed fresh and pleasantly chewy for up to two weeks. Just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and crumbling.

Freezing

Freezing these bars is a game-changer when you want ready-to-go snacks on hand. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or parchment, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. When I do this, the bars slice easily straight from frozen without falling apart.

Reheating

If you prefer your granola bars softer, simply unwrap and microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds or let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. Heating brings back the almond butter’s richness and softens the oats just enough without turning soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, I absolutely love how this Cherry Almond Granola Bars Recipe comes together with simple ingredients that taste homemade and wholesome. It’s become a staple in my kitchen for quick snacks and even breakfast on rushed mornings. I know once you give it a try, you’ll appreciate having these bars ready to fuel your day with good energy and delicious flavor. So go ahead, make a batch, and let these bars become your new favorite grab-and-go treat — your future self will thank you!

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