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I came home from the grocery store with fresh strawberries and a granola bar craving. Perfect timing for Homemade Strawberry Peanut Butter Granola Bars that combine pantry staples with fresh strawberries for a chewy, satisfying snack that’s perfect for breakfast on the go, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet bite after dinner. They’re simple to make, sweetened with honey and my friend’s homemade applesauce , and loaded with peanut butter flavor in every bite.

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/0SgZ1Ygwy4c

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Tools From the Kitchen:

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Cutting board

• Chef’s knife

• Rubber spatula

• 8x8 baking dish

• Parchment paper

• Sandwich bag (for crushing peanuts)

• Rolling pin (or heavy glass)

• Measuring cup (for pressing mixture)

• Non-stick cooking spray

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats

• ½ cup crunchy peanut butter

• ½ cup applesauce

• ⅓ cup honey, plus extra for drizzling

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ cup sunflower seeds

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced

• ¼ cup peanuts, crushed

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Prepare:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter, applesauce, honey, and vanilla until smooth.

3. Add the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sunflower seeds. Mix until well combined.

4. Gently fold in the diced strawberries.

5. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

6. Spray the bottom of a measuring cup with non-stick spray and firmly press the mixture into an even layer.

7. Sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the top and finish with a light drizzle of honey.

8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.

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Notes From the Kitchen:

• Pressing the mixture firmly helps the bars hold together after baking.

• Let the bars cool completely before cutting for the cleanest slices.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• These bars also freeze well for a quick grab-and-go snack.

• Because they contain fresh strawberries, refrigeration is recommended.

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