Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these irresistible Cranberry Pistachio Cereal Bars that are not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to make! Imagine biting into a perfect balance of sweet honey, crunchy pistachios, and tangy dried cranberries - a treat that's both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout boost, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these homemade bars will become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened puffed rice cereal
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, puffed rice cereal, dried cranberries, and chopped pistachios. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a small saucepan, combine honey and peanut butter. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
- Remove the honey-peanut butter mixture from heat and stir in vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour the warm liquid mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all ingredients are completely coated and well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes to allow them to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 equal rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your oats, pistachios, and cranberries are fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
- Press firmly: When transferring the mixture to the pan, press down very firmly to help the bars hold together well.
- Chill completely: Don't rush the chilling process - a full 30 minutes helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
- Customize your mix: Feel free to swap pistachios or cranberries with other nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste.
- Storage hack: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.
- For a cleaner cut, run your knife under hot water and dry before slicing the bars to get smooth, even pieces.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
