Name: Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup oat flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup apple sauce; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups quick oats; ½ cup dark chocolate chips; ½ cup raisins; ½ cup chopped pecans

This recipe for low fat chewy granola bars is a delightful treat, perfect for a healthy snack. Infused with pecans, raisins, and chocolate chips, it's a delicious blend of chewy, sweet, and slightly salty flavors that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt. It's simple to make and perfect for on-the-go busy individuals.

Photos of Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe

Most of these ingredients can easily be found in your pantry, including oat flour, raisins, and pecans. If not, the supermarket will definitely have them. Make sure to buy quality dark chocolate chips as they add a depth of flavor to these granilla bars. Meanwhile, if you have celiac disease or a sensitivity to gluten, ensure that your oat flour and oats are certified gluten-free.

Ingredients for Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins, and Chocolate Chips

Oat flour: A fine flour made from ground oats, it provides a hearty texture and subtle nutty flavor to the granola bars.

Baking powder: Helps to give the granola bars a light, airy texture.

Baking soda: Also used to help the granola bars rise slightly during baking.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet-spicy kick to the granola bars.

Unsalted butter: Gives the bars a rich, buttery flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together.

Honey: Serves as a natural sweetener and adds moisture to the granola bars.

Apple sauce: Adds natural sweetness and helps keep the bars moist.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the granola bars.

Quick oats: Provides a chewy texture and hearty flavor.

Dark chocolate chips: Adds a rich chocolatey flavor. Look for at least 60% cocoa for the best taste.

Raisins: Adds a natural sweetness and chewy texture.

Chopped pecans: Provides a bit of crunch and unique flavor to the bars.

One reader, Joane Klein says:

These low-fat chewy granola bars are a game-changer! The combination of pecans, raisins, and chocolate chips is simply divine. They're the perfect guilt-free snack for any time of day. I love that they're so easy to make and taste absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Joane Klein

Techniques Required for Making Chewy Granola Bars

How to prepare the baking pan: Line a 9x9 baking pan with 2 long pieces of parchment paper, long enough to go up over the sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with oil.

How to mix the ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar using a mixer on medium speed. Add the egg followed by the honey, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Working by hand, stir in the flour mixture and the oats until just combined and no streaks of flour remain; stir in the chocolate chips, raisins, and nuts.

How to bake the granola bars: Spoon oats onto the prepared baking dish, flattening to make even. Bake for about 23-25 minutes at 350 degrees F, or until light brown at the edges. They will seem soft and undercooked, but once they cool, they will set completely.

How to cool and cut the granola bars: Cool completely on a wire rack then refrigerate before cutting. This will help the granola bars hold together better. Use a long serrated bread knife and cut in a sawing motion.

How To Make Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips

This low-fat granola bars recipe is loaded with pecans and chocolatey goodness that is sure to bring decadence on your first bite!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Cool and Chill Time: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupoat flour,or 1 cup oats finely ground in food processor or blender
1tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
½tspground cinnamon
2tbspunsalted butter,room temperature
½cupbrown sugar,unpacked
1large egg
¼cuphoney
¼cupapple sauce,unsweetened
½tspvanilla extract
2cupsquick oats
½cupdark chocolate chips
½cupraisins
½cupchopped pecans

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Line a 9×9 baking pan with 2 long pieces of parchment paper, long enough to go up over the sides for easy removal.
Lightly spray with oil.
In a medium bowl, whisk together oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar using a mixer on medium speed.
Add the egg followed by the honey, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
Working by hand, stir in the flour mixture and the oats until just combined and no streaks of flour remain; stir in the chocolate chips, raisins, and nuts.
Spoon oats onto prepared baking dish, flattening to make even.
Bake for about 23-25 minutes, or until light brown at the edges. They will seem soft and undercooked, but once they cool they will set completely.
Cool completely on a wire rack then refrigerate before cutting. This will help the granola bars hold together better.
Use a long serrated bread knife and cut in a sawing motion.

Nutrition

Calories: 187.30kcal
Fat: 7.92g
Saturated Fat: 2.83g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.37g
Carbohydrates: 27.17g
Fiber: 2.57g
Sugar: 13.51g
Protein: 3.66g
Cholesterol: 15.61mg
Sodium: 114.67mg
Calcium: 45.51mg
Potassium: 165.39mg
Iron: 1.73mg
Vitamin A: 17.41µg
Vitamin C: 0.98mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars

When making these low fat chewy granola bars, it's crucial to not overmix the batter after adding the oat flour and quick oats. Overmixing can lead to a denser, less chewy texture. Instead, stir just until you can't see any streaks of flour. This will ensure your granola bars have the perfect chewy texture. Additionally, using dark chocolate chips not only adds a rich flavor but also provides health benefits due to their high antioxidant content. However, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute them with milk chocolate chips.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

One-bowl method: Look for recipes that use only one bowl for mixing to minimize cleanup time and streamline the cooking process.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop nuts, blend ingredients, or make oat flour, saving time and effort.

Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra granola bars for future use, saving time on future baking sessions.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe

oat flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute for oat flour to add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the granola bars.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the granola bars.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic index alternative to brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness to the granola bars.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan alternative to a regular egg, providing binding properties to the granola bars.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey, adding a rich, natural sweetness to the granola bars.
apple sauce - Substitute with mashed banana: Mashed banana can be used as a natural sweetener and binder, adding moisture and a hint of banana flavor to the granola bars.
quick oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to quick oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor to the granola bars.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a healthier alternative to dark chocolate chips, adding a rich, chocolatey flavor and crunchy texture to the granola bars.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a tangy alternative to raisins, adding a burst of sweetness and chewy texture to the granola bars.
pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a crunchy alternative to pecans, adding a nutty flavor and texture to the granola bars.

Best Way to Present Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips

Elevate the plating: When presenting the granola bars, arrange them on a beautiful serving platter or wooden board to add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh fruits: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing with fresh berries or sliced figs for a visually appealing finish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a delicate and sophisticated element by incorporating edible flowers such as lavender or rose petals to add a touch of refinement to the dish.
Use a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the granola bars with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to create a visually stunning contrast and a touch of sweetness.
Present with a drizzle of honey: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of honey over the granola bars to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of natural sweetness.
Accompany with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream: For a luxurious touch, serve the granola bars alongside a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extravagant presentation, consider delicately placing a few edible gold leaf accents on the plate to create a sense of opulence and luxury.
Serve with a side of homemade yogurt: Accompany the granola bars with a dollop of creamy homemade yogurt for a refreshing and complementary addition to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making granola bar dough and processing nuts or dried fruits.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry and wet ingredients for the granola bars. It's also used for mixing the dough and incorporating the various add-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, and pecans.
9x9 baking pan: A 9x9 baking pan is used to bake the granola bar mixture. It's important to line it with parchment paper for easy removal and to prevent sticking.
Mixer: A mixer is used for creaming together the butter and sugar, as well as incorporating the wet ingredients for the granola bars.
Serrated bread knife: A serrated bread knife is used to cut the cooled granola bars into individual portions. Its sharp, saw-like edge helps to create clean cuts without crumbling the bars.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Granola Bars

Once the granola bars have cooled completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from sticking together and to maintain their freshness.
Place the wrapped granola bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing any odors from other foods in your pantry or refrigerator.
Store the container or bag of granola bars in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard, for up to 1 week. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause the chocolate chips to melt and the granola bars to become too soft.
If you want to keep the granola bars fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving, as they may become too hard when chilled.
For even longer storage, you can freeze the granola bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When you're ready to eat one, simply thaw it at room temperature for about an hour, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer texture.
If you find that your granola bars are too soft or crumbly after storing them, you can try reheating them in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes to help them firm up and regain their chewy texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Granola Bars

To reheat leftover granola bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the granola bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore the texture and bring out the flavors of the nuts, chocolate chips, and raisins.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the granola bars on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you're only reheating a few bars.
For a softer, chewier texture, you can microwave the granola bars. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate chips to melt and the bars to become too soft.
If you prefer a cold, chewy texture, you can enjoy the leftover granola bars straight from the refrigerator. The bars will be firmer and the flavors will be more pronounced when chilled.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, store the leftover granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If storing in the refrigerator, allow the bars to come to room temperature before reheating or enjoying cold.

Random Fact about Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars

Granola bars are a convenient and healthy snack option that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. They are a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a filling and nutritious choice for on-the-go snacking. Plus, the combination of pecans, raisins, and chocolate chips in this recipe adds a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making these granola bars a delicious treat for any time of day.

Is Making Chewy Granola Bars at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this low fat chewy granola bars with pecans, raisins and chocolate chips recipe is quite favorable. With ingredients like oat flour, honey, applesauce, and quick oats, it offers a balance of nutrition and flavor. The addition of pecans, raisins, and dark chocolate chips enhances the taste and nutritional value. This recipe would be rated an 8/10 for its health benefits and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15, making it an affordable and nutritious option for a snack or breakfast.

Are Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

This granola bar recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Let's break it down:

Positives:

Oat flour and quick oats provide fiber and complex carbohydrates
Pecans offer healthy fats and protein
Raisins contribute natural sweetness and nutrients
Applesauce replaces some of the butter, reducing fat content

Negatives:

Brown sugar and honey add significant amounts of sugar
Butter and chocolate chips increase the fat content
The recipe lacks a significant source of protein

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the brown sugar by half and replace the other half with a natural sweetener like mashed bananas or dates
Swap the butter for a healthier alternative like coconut oil or nut butter
Increase the protein content by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder or some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
Use dark chocolate chips with a higher cocoa content (70% or more) for added antioxidants and less sugar
Incorporate some seeds, such as chia or flax, for an extra nutrient boost
Experiment with different dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, to vary the flavor and nutrient profile

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious granola bar that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, moderation is key, and even healthy snacks should be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Granola Bar Recipe

The recipe for low-fat chewy granola bars with pecans, raisins, and chocolate chips is a delightful and wholesome treat. The combination of oat flour, honey, and applesauce creates a moist and chewy texture, while the addition of pecans and raisins provides a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. The use of dark chocolate chips adds a rich and indulgent touch. The baking instructions are precise, ensuring the perfect texture and flavor. These granola bars are a nutritious and satisfying snack that will please both kids and adults alike.

Enhance Your Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the granola bars with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The sweetness of the granola bars will complement the savory flavors of the roasted vegetables.

Grilled Chicken Breast: Pair the chewy granola bars with a juicy grilled chicken breast for a satisfying and balanced meal. The protein from the chicken will complement the fiber and nutrients in the granola bars.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with a variety of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, will make a delightful accompaniment to the chewy granola bars. The combination of flavors will be a hit with everyone at the table.

Other Delicious Granola Bar Recipes to Try

Healthy Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad is packed with protein and colorful vegetables, perfect for a light and nutritious meal.

Savory Baked Chicken Parmesan: A delicious twist on a classic Italian dish, this baked chicken parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Fresh Fruit Smoothie Bowl: Start your day with a burst of energy and vitamins with this vibrant and customizable smoothie bowl, topped with your favorite fruits and nuts.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: As a culinary chef, I recommend creating a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The result is a rich and satisfying bite-sized treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: For a refreshing and vibrant appetizer, consider serving bruschetta topped with a colorful medley of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. The combination of crisp bread and zesty toppings is a perfect way to kick off any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The combination of savory chicken and creamy sauce is sure to satisfy any comfort food craving.

Beef Stir Fry: A flavorful and colorful dish, this stir fry features tender strips of beef and an array of crisp, vibrant vegetables. The savory and slightly sweet sauce brings all the ingredients together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Why trust this Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe:

This recipe offers a perfect balance of healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. The use of oat flour and apple sauce reduces the fat content without compromising on taste. The combination of pecans, raisins, and dark chocolate chips provides a satisfying chewy texture and a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors. The careful instructions for cooling and refrigerating ensure that the granola bars hold together perfectly. With its thoughtful blend of wholesome ingredients and attention to detail, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for anyone seeking a low-fat and satisfying snack.

Share your thoughts on this Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars with Pecans, Raisins and Chocolate Chips Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I substitute the oat flour with all-purpose flour?

I would not recommend substituting oat flour with all-purpose flour in this recipe, as oat flour contributes to the chewy texture of the granola bars. If you don't have oat flour, you can easily make your own by grinding oats in a food processor or blender until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency.

Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?

Yes, you can definitely omit the nuts if you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to include them. You can replace the nuts with an equal amount of additional oats, seeds, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference. Feel free to customize the chocolate chips to suit your taste.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, you can use maple syrup as a substitute for honey in this recipe. It will impart a slightly different flavor, but it will still work well as a sweetener and binder for the granola bars.

How long do these granola bars stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these granola bars will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months.