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how to make simple granola bars with 5 ingredients

Easy Date Granola Bars

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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Total Time 15 mins
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine Gluten free, Vegan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup packed pitted dates
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup substitute with agava or honey
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter, home-made or store-bought
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla optional
  • 1 cup roasted unsalted almonds, loosely chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats use gluten-free if preferred
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips/chunks
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut

Instructions
 

  • Process dates in food processor until it forms a fine paste.
  • Toast oats and almonds if raw (can skip this step) in 350-degree F. oven for 10-15 minutes or until slightly brown. Otherwise leave them raw.
  • Place oats, almonds, and dates in large mixing bowl and set aside.
  • Warm maple syrup or sweetener of choice, peanut butter, and vanilla (if using) in small saucepan over low heat until combined (2-3 minutes). Stir and pour over oat mixture. Mix until thoroughly combined--use hands if needed. Fold in dried fruit.
  • Spread into an 8x8 baking dish lined with wax or parchment paper. Press firmly down until its spread evenly.
  • Cover with parchment paper or plastic wrap and place in fridge or freezer for 15 minutes or until firm.
  • Remove from pan and cut into 8-10 even bars for serving.

Notes

  • Store in airtight container in fridge or freezer for 2-4 days (won't last that long). 
  • Substitute dark chocolate/coconut with your preferred preference of dried fruits. 
  • Can use walnuts or pistachios. 
Keyword healthy granola bars