Easy No Bake Homemade Granola Bars

Easy No Bake Homemade Granola Bars

 Healthy homemade snack fun with kids!

As promised in my previous post, I am continuing to experiment with different granola bar recipes. Today was extra fun as Lillee, my granddaughter, was visiting and wanted to help (she LOVES to cook!). I enjoy our time together and cooking together has become our favorite pass time.  My recipe search lead me to http://minimalistbaker.com/healthy-5-ingredient-granola-bars/ .

I followed most of the recipe but did alter it a bit for personal preference. I reduced the rolled oats and added steel cut oats. As always, I used carob nibs instead of choc chips. This is a very easy and quick recipe that is perfect for little hands! Ask your little ones what dried fruits they prefer and try experimenting with different grains as well. I suggest making these for those sporting events! Your hungry athlete will be sure to have long lasting energy. Just make sure you have enough to share with teammates! 

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup steel cut oats

1 cup packed medjool dates (pitted)

1/4 cup honey

14 cup creamy salted natural peanut butter

1 cup roasted unsalted almonds, loosely chopped

* optional: chocolate chips, dried fruit, grains, vanilla, etc.

* optional: toast oats in oven at 350* for 15 minutes

Instructions:

1) Process dates in a food processor or blender until a "dough" forms (rolls into ball)

2)  Place oats, almonds, and dates in a large mixing bowl.

3) Place honey and peanut butter in a small sauce, stirring over low heat until warm/melted, pour over dry ingredients. Mix well, breaking up dates so they are even throughout mixture.

4) Transfer to an 8x8 baking dish lined with parchment paper. Press down firmly until uniform. Be sure to pack tightly so they hold together well. 

5) Cover with plastic wrap and let firm in fridge or freezer for 15-20 minutes.

6) Remove bars from pan and cut into desired size bars. Store in airtight container for up to a few days. Freeze extras. 

Share your pictures and stories of this recipe and your own twist! We want to see what you and your little ones create!