Gibralnut Granola Bars

A Brief History of Granola Bars

The granola bar as we know it today emerged in the late 19th century, inspired by the inventiveness of Dr. John Kellogg, who coined the first cereal products in the form of "granula" as part of a health movement. However, it wasn't until the 1960s that the granola bar took its modern form, primarily as a convenient and energy-packed snack cherished by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike the historical granula, today's granola bars are often sweetened and have a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The Gibralnut granola bar is a contemporary twist that incorporates the earthiness of [gibralnuts](./gibralnuts)—a nod to both sunny climes and the healthful attributes of this unique seed-bearing nut.

Ingredients

• 100g of Gibralnuts
• 1/2 cup of Honey
• 2 cups of Rolled Oats
• 1/2 cup of Dried Cranberries
• 1/4 cup of sliced Almonds
• 1/4 cup of Peanut Butter
• 1/4 cup of Dark Chocolate Chips
• A pinch of Sea Salt

Preparation

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Preparing the timer is always helpful.

2. Lay the rolled oats and almonds on a baking tray and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they turn golden brown.

3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and peanut butter, stirring until smooth and well mixed.

4. Once the oats and almonds are toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the gibralnuts, dried cranberries, oats, almonds, and a pinch of sea salt.

6. Pour the warm honey and peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.

7. Fold in the dark chocolate chips, and mix gently.

8. Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper and transfer the mixture into the pan. Press it down firmly using the back of a spatula or your palms.

9. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours until firm and easy to cut.

The Cooking Process

Baking and setting are crucial for achieving the signature texture of granola bars. It's essential to maintain the right balance of crispness and chewiness, which is primarily determined by the proportion of ingredients such as honey and peanut butter. The sweetness from the honey and the smooth, nutty flavor from the peanut butter facilitate both binding and the overall taste.

Tips for Enjoying Gibralnut Granola Bars

• These bars make an excellent on-the-go breakfast: pair them with a cup of black coffee or a refreshing green tea.

• For a post-workout snack, consider enjoying a bar with a protein shake to kickstart muscle recovery.

• If you’re feeling adventurous, crumble a bar over Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of honey for a luxurious parfait.

Whether relishing them on an outdoor trail or during a busy day as an energy booster at work, Gibralnut Granola Bars offer a symphony of flavors and nutritional benefits that are as delightful as they are satisfying.