I quit buying store bought granola bars about 5 years ago because of all the added sugar and artificial flavors. Since having kids, I am always looking for healthy snack alternatives. I adapted this recipe from Jessica Merchant’s, new book called Seriously Delish, who also runs a blog called “How sweet Eats“. This was my first attempt at making my own granola bars, with a little help from Miss E. They turned out perfect and got taste approval by my toddler and husband. These granola bars are packed with dietitian approved ingredients. They contain large flake oats, which are packed with heart healthy soluble fiber and good for the whole family. For the full nutritional benefit, make sure you choose steel cut oats or large flakes as they have the bran and germ intact. Both flax and chia seeds are packed with omega 3 fatty acids, protein, and fibre. These granola bars are prefect for an afternoon snack or a breakfast bar if your in a rush to get out the door.
adapted from Delish by Jessica Merchant
Yields 12
10 minPrep Time
25 minCook Time
35 minTotal Time
Save RecipeIngredients
- 2 cups of large flake oats
- 1/2 cup ground flax seed
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/3 cup of pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup of raisins
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 TBSP chia seeds
- 2 TBSP brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 TBSP cacao nibs
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil
- 1/2 cup of almond butter
- 1/3 cup of maple syrup or honey (if you prefer firm bars I would use honey)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- ). Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- ). Line a 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper, leave some parchment paper hanging over the sides.
- ). In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients and mix.
- ). Fold cacao nibs into dry ingredients
- ). In a small pot over low heat, combine coconut oil, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Once mixture has melted pour into oat mixture and combine ingredients.
- ). Pour granola into lined baking dish and press granola firmly into the dish.
- ). Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- ). Remove from the oven and let bars cool slightly , firmly press on bars with spatula.
- Cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
For gluten free granola bars look for gluten free oats.
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