Granola Bar
There you are again. It’s the afternoon and you’re hungry… but you just don’t know what to eat. Is there a delicious option you haven’t tried yet that won’t leave you feeling guilty?
Try my famous (if only in my own household) Granola Bar!
Make them ahead of time to have on hand. Take it to the office for some added vitamins, and you’re saving money while avoiding typical sugary snacks. It’s also the perfect afterschool treat your kids won’t hesitate to ask for time and again.
So what makes this slice so healthy?
Pumpkin (‘pepita’) seeds make this slice calcium rich and the hemp seeds are packed with healthy fats, magnesium and zinc. The dates not only bring great texture, but provide antioxidants, iron, vitamin A and fibre.
It’s super easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, if there’s any left! And yes, you can freeze them too.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups rolled oats
1/2 cup nuts (almonds and macadamia, roughly chopped)
1 cup pitted dates
2 Tbsp chia seeds
2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds (roasted or raw)
4 Tbsp hemp seeds
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Method
Toast your oats and nuts in oven at 180 degrees for 13-15 minutes or until slightly golden brown.
Process dates in a food processor until small bits remain (about 1 minute). It should form a “dough” like consistency.
Place oats, nuts and dates in a large mixing bowl. Add seeds and set aside.
Warm honey and peanut butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir and pour over oat mixture and then mix, breaking up the dates to disperse throughout. Use a spoon or your hands to thoroughly mix.
Transfer to a small pan lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper so they lift out easily
Cover with baking paper or plastic wrap and press down with something flat to get them packed tight. This will help them from being crumbly. Chill in the fridge or freezer for 15-20 minutes to harden.
Remove bars from dish and chop into 10 even bars. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days, in the fridge.
