Berry Granola Squares by Slade Grove

A few months ago, I was asked if I made anything like a protein bar or a bar that could be used for a meal replacement. After going through the grocery store aisles and reading the labels, I was pretty shocked to learn what they actually put in the so-called “healthy” bars. I decided to work on bar that’s not only healthy but tastes pretty darn good, too.

I’ve crafted this recipe to be extremely easy to make, bake, and take with you for a quick, healthy, all natural snack. If you cut them larger, Slade Grove’s Berry Granola Squares can be used for a meal replacement alternative (using mixed fruit is the best for meal replacements). Make sure to drink at least 8oz of water while you’re eating the bar.

Making my Berry Granola Squares is a two-step mixing process. Make sure to read the instructions and fruit options first before starting. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send me an eMail. First you’ll need to make a granola base and add it to a batter.

So let’s get started…  

Pre-heat oven to 350 F.

To make the Granola Base you’ll need:

1lb of old fashioned rolled oats (not the quick cook kind)
2oz pure vegetable oil

Mix the rolled oats and oil together in a large bowl and the spread the mix onto a non-stick baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until golden brown while stirring occasionally.

Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Using stand mixer fitted with the flat paddle attachment mix the following ingredients together to make the batter:

11oz Brown Sugar
4oz Vegetable Oil
3 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla Extract
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – recommended but optional
1/4 tsp ground ginger – recommended but optional
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg – recommended but optional
After the above ingredients are combined, add in the following on low speed:

7oz of Whole Wheat Flour

After combined removed work bowl from mixer and fold in in the following:

1lb Frozen Mixed Berries (see note below)
1C Dried Cranberries

NOTE: You can use any fruit you wish. However, make sure that it’s frozen and in a 1lb package. I’ve tested this recipe with a mixed fruit medley (blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), frozen chopped mango, and wild blueberries. Also adjust spices according to your own tastes. Personally, I’m not a big cinnamon fan, but from a health benefits point of view, it’s a great inclusion. You can also add in a few handfuls of your favorite chopped nut.

Spread mixture into a 13×9 baking pan that’s been sprayed with non-stick baking spray such as BakeKleen or Baker’s Joy. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes (until set). Remove from oven and allow to cool. Cut out desired size of square. Store in a sealed continuer or individually wrap to maintain freshness.

Enjoy!