When the afternoon slump hits, and you’re looking for something to satisfy your cravings while keeping your energy levels steady, reaching for a healthy snack is key. These Cranberry Muesli Bars are not just delicious and satisfying, but they’re also packed with nutrients that can help support your body during menopause. Loaded with fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants, these bars offer a perfect balance of flavour and nutrition, making them an ideal snack to have on hand throughout the day.

During menopause, maintaining stable energy levels and getting the right nutrients is crucial. These Cranberry Granola Bars are designed to do just that. They’re not only delicious but also provide a host of health benefits, making them a fantastic snack option for women going through menopause.

The combination of oats, nuts, and seeds in these bars provides a steady release of energy, helping to avoid those dreaded energy crashes that can be all too common during menopause. The fibre in oats also supports digestive health, which can sometimes become a concern during this life stage.

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which are essential for fighting oxidative stress and reducing inflammation in the body. This is particularly beneficial during menopause, as hormonal changes can increase oxidative stress, leading to various health concerns.

The inclusion of nuts and seeds provides healthy fats, which are crucial for hormone production and overall hormonal balance. These fats also help keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking.

One of the best things about these bars is how simple they are to make. Plus, they’re incredibly tasty chewy, slightly sweet, and with just the right amount of tartness from the cranberries. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a mid- afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-dinner treat, these bars are the perfect choice.

Now that we’ve covered why these bars are so great for menopause, let’s dive into the recipe. These Cranberry Granola Bars are easy to make and can be prepared in advance, so you always have a healthy snack ready when you need it.

• 2 cups rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
• 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra flavour) Pinch of salt
  

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang
on the sides for easy removal later.

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, dried cranberries, chopped nuts,
sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, ground flaxseeds, cinnamon, and a pinch
of salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil. Add the almond
butter and honey (or maple syrup) to the saucepan, stirring until the mixture
is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla
extract.

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to thoroughly
mix everything together until the dry ingredients are fully coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or
your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the
pan.

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until
the mixture is firm and set.

Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block of muesli out
of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into bars or squares of your
preferred size.

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two
weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Customise Your Bars: Feel free to customise these bars with your favourite add-ins. You can swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots or raisins, or add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.

Make It Your Own: Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to suit your taste.

Portable and Convenient: These bars are perfect for a grab-and-go snack, making them ideal for busy days when you need a nutritious boost.

Cranberry Granola Bars are more than just a tasty treat—they’re a snack that can provide real benefits during menopause. With their balanced blend of oats, nuts,
seeds, and cranberries, these bars offer sustained energy, support hormonal balance, and deliver a healthy dose of antioxidants. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for enjoying at home or on the go.

By incorporating these Cranberry Granola Bars into your diet, you’re not only treating yourself to something delicious but also supporting your body’s nutritional needs during this important life stage. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a snack that’s as beneficial as it is delicious?