Are you craving a delicious, wholesome snack that checks all the boxes - gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free? Look no further! These incredible granola bars are about to revolutionize your snacking game. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, these homemade treats are so good, you'll wonder why you ever bought store-bought bars. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie, dealing with dietary restrictions, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying energy boost, these granola bars are your perfect solution!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dried fruit
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free oats, pumpkin seeds, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the sunflower seed butter and maple syrup for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the warm sunflower seed butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix carefully using a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated and stick together.
- Fold in the dried fruit, ensuring it is distributed evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or clean hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, creating a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block of granola out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 10 even bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality gluten-free oats for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they set properly and don't crumble.
- For extra flavor, try toasting the pumpkin seeds before adding them to the mixture.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries, chopped dates, or raisins to customize your bars.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more maple syrup. If it's too wet, add a few more oats.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bars from becoming too dry.
- For a fun variation, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
