Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Enjoy a wholesome yet indulgent treat with these Blissful Strawberries 'n' Cream Granola Bars! Combining crunchy oats, dried strawberries, and a creamy yogurt drizzle, these bars are the perfect balance of sweetness and nourishment. They make for a perfect snack on the go or a delightful addition to your breakfast routine. Each bite offers a burst of fruity flavor and a creamy finish that you’ll love!

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Chilling time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Number of servings: 12 bars
• Serving size: 1 bar

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 bar):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 7g

Ingredients:

• 200g (2 cups) rolled oats
• 60g (1/4 cup) dried strawberries, chopped
• 60g (1/4 cup) almonds, chopped
• 50g (1/4 cup) honey
• 50g (1/4 cup) almond butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
• 50g (1/4 cup) Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (15ml)
• 30g (1 oz) white chocolate, melted (for the cream drizzle)

Method of Preparation:

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped dried strawberries, and almonds. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2. Make the wet mixture: In a small saucepan, heat the honey, almond butter, and coconut oil over low heat, stirring until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine and mix: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until the oats, strawberries, and almonds are evenly coated.
4. Shape the bars: Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) pan with parchment paper. Pour the granola mixture into the pan and press down firmly using the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
5. Chill the bars: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.
6. Make the cream drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with the melted white chocolate until smooth and creamy.
7. Drizzle and serve: Once the granola has set, remove from the fridge and cut into 12 bars. Drizzle the yogurt mixture over the top of each bar for that strawberries ‘n’ cream finish. Return to the fridge for 10 minutes to let the drizzle set.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Culinary Tips for Success:

1. Press firmly: Be sure to press the granola mixture into the pan firmly to help the bars hold their shape.
2. Chill thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling process—this ensures the bars set well and don’t crumble when cut.
3. Customize with mix-ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even dark chocolate chips for added flavor and nutrition.
4. Use quality dried fruit: Opt for high-quality, unsweetened dried strawberries for the best natural flavor.
5. Store properly: Keep the bars refrigerated to maintain their texture and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of dried? Dried strawberries are recommended as they provide a chewy texture and won't make the bars soggy. Fresh strawberries may add too much moisture and prevent the bars from setting properly.
2. How long will these granola bars last? When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month.
3. Can I use a different nut butter? Yes! You can easily substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter depending on your preference.
4. What can I substitute for the honey? You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
5. Are these bars gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars are gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Blissful Strawberries 'n' Cream Granola Bars offer a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavor, making them a delightful addition to your snack collection. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat or an on-the-go snack, these bars deliver both nutrition and satisfaction. With their creamy yogurt drizzle and chewy texture, they’re bound to become a favorite!