Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars are a delightful and nutritious snack that combines the goodness of oats, almonds, coconut, raisins, dried cherries, and sunflower kernels bound together with a delectable mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and creamy peanut butter. These homemade granola bars offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a favorite choice for on-the-go snacks, hikes, or a quick energy boost during busy days.

The origin of granola bars can be traced back to the late 19th century when the health-food movement gained popularity in the United States. Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, promoted the consumption of whole grains as part of a healthy diet, and his followers created Graham crackers, which later evolved into granola bars.

Granola bars gained further popularity in the 1970s as a convenient and nutritious snack option. As more people became health-conscious and sought out wholesome, natural ingredients, granola bars filled a niche in the market. With the rising popularity of hiking and outdoor activities, these portable and energy-dense snacks became a favorite among adventurers.

Over time, various recipes and variations of granola bars emerged to cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs. The Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars incorporate the delicious combination of sunflower kernels and dried cherries, adding a delightful twist to the classic granola bar recipe.

PREP: 30 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 2½ DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup dried cherries
• ½ cup sunflower kernels

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Spread the oats into an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the oats are lightly browned.
2. While the oats are baking, spread the sliced almonds and flaked coconut into another ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until they are lightly toasted.
3. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, bring the sugar and corn syrup to a boil. Cook and stir for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter until it is well combined.
4. Add the raisins, dried cherries, sunflower kernels, toasted oats, almonds, and coconut to the peanut butter mixture.
5. Using a metal spatula, press the mixture into an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
7. Once cooled and set, cut the mixture into bars of your desired size.
8. Enjoy these scrumptious Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars as a delightful and wholesome snack whenever you need an energy boost or a tasty treat during your adventures or daily activities! Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Yogurt Parfait with Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars:
  • Take one or two Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars and break them into smaller pieces.
  • In a tall glass or a bowl, layer your favorite yogurt (Greek yogurt or plain yogurt) with the granola bar pieces.
  • Add a layer of fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries) on top of the yogurt and granola bars.
  • Drizzle a spoonful of honey or maple syrup over the berries for extra sweetness and flavor.
  • Repeat the layers until you fill the glass or bowl, finishing with a final sprinkle of granola bar pieces on top.
  • This serving suggestion creates a delightful and nutritious yogurt parfait with the perfect balance of creamy yogurt, fruity flavors, and crunchy granola bars.

• Trail Mix with Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars:
  • Take one Sunflower Cherry Granola Bar and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
  • Combine the granola bar pieces with some nuts of your choice (such as almonds, cashews, or walnuts).
  • Add some dried fruits (raisins, dried cranberries, or apricots) to the mix.
  • Toss in a handful of sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
  • Optional: You can also include a few dark chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks for a touch of indulgence.
  • Mix all the ingredients together and transfer the trail mix to a portable container or small resealable bags for a convenient and energizing snack on-the-go.
  • This serving suggestion turns the Sunflower Cherry Granola Bars into a delightful and customizable trail mix that you can enjoy during outdoor activities, hikes, or as a quick pick-me-up snack at work or school.