5 Delicious Ways to Use Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars in Your Kitchen

When it comes to snacking, Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that not only satisfy your cravings but also provide a nutritious boost. Made with real fruit, whole nuts, and rich dark chocolate, these granola bars are versatile enough to be used in a variety of holiday-inspired recipes. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas, Hanukkah, or simply indulging in some festive baking, these bars can elevate your culinary creations. In this article, we’ll explore five delicious ways to incorporate these granola bars into your holiday kitchen.

Quick Facts

• Product Name: Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
• Seller: Caribbean Fresh Market

• Price: Available on StoresGo
• Main Ingredients: Whole grain oats, dark chocolate chunks, dried cherries, almonds, cranberries

• Dietary Info: No artificial flavors, colors, or high fructose corn syrup
• Serving Size: 6 bars per box

1. Granola Bar Cheesecake Crust

Ingredients

• 2 boxes of Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars (12 bars total)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Prepare the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the granola bars until finely crushed. Mix in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

• Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.

• Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

• Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled granola crust.

• Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set. Remove and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.

Chef's Tips and Tricks

• For a festive twist, add a layer of cherry pie filling on top before serving.
• Use parchment paper at the bottom of the springform pan for easier removal.

2. Granola Bar Energy Bites

Ingredients

• 1 box of Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
• 1/2 cup almond butter

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, break the granola bars into small pieces. Add almond butter and honey, and mix until well combined.

• Incorporate Extras: Stir in mini chocolate chips and shredded coconut, if desired.

• Form the Bites: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).

• Chill: Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Variations for Different Dietary Needs

• Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.

3. Granola Bar Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 box of Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
• 1 cup flour (can be gluten-free)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar. Beat in the egg.

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.

• Add Granola Bars: Break the granola bars into small chunks and fold into the dough. Add nuts if using.

• Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

4. Holiday Parfait

Ingredients

• 2 boxes of Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
• 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)

• 1 cup fresh cherries or berries
• 1/4 cup honey or syrup (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare Ingredients: Break the granola bars into small pieces and set aside.

• Layer the Parfait: In a clear glass or bowl, layer yogurt, granola bar pieces, and fresh cherries.

• Repeat Layers: Continue layering until the glass is full. Drizzle with honey or syrup if desired.

• Chill: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

5. Granola Bar Topping for Holiday Desserts

Ingredients

• 1 box of Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
• 1 cup whipped cream or yogurt

• 1 prepared cake or pie (like chocolate tart or vanilla cake)

Instructions

• Prepare Topping: Break granola bars into small pieces and set aside.

• Top the Dessert: Spread whipped cream or yogurt over the cake or pie and sprinkle the granola bar pieces on top.

• Serve: Enjoy as a crunchy, flavorful topping for your holiday desserts.

FAQ Section

1. Are Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars healthy?

2. Can I use these granola bars in baking?

3. How should I store my granola bars?

4. Are there gluten-free options available?

5. How many bars come in a box?

6. Can I find these bars on StoresGo?

7. Where can I buy them?

Conclusion

Incorporating Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Chewy Fruit and Nut Granola Bars into your holiday baking or snacking routine is a fantastic way to add flavor and nutrition to your dishes. From cheesecake crusts to energy bites and desserts, these granola bars are incredibly versatile. So why wait? Head over to [StoresGo](https://storesgo.com/products/86161) today, stock up on these delicious bars, and elevate your holiday cooking!

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