Homemade Granola Bars #Recipe @PegCochran

 

 

These are very easy to make and don't take more than a few minutes.  I made them for a grab-and-go breakfast for my granddaughter.  The store was out of chopped almonds so I substituted sliced almonds and they worked just fine.  I chose to toast the almonds and oatmeal but that step is optional.  

1 cup packed dates (pitted—look for deglet noor or medjool dates)

1/4 cup maple syrup, honey or agave nectar  

1/4 cup creamy salted natural peanut butter or almond butter

1 cup roasted unsalted almonds (loosely chopped)

1 1/2 cups rolled oats  

 

Prepare an 8 x 8 inch baking pan by creating a “sling” out of parchment paper.

 

 

 

Place dates in food processor and chop into small bits until it forms a dough like consistency.

 

 

Toast oats and almonds (if raw) in 350 degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly golden (this step is optional but adds to the flavor.) 

 

 

 

Transfer oats, almonds and dates to a large mixing bowl.

 

Warm maple syrup, honey or agave and peanut butter over low heat.  Stir thoroughly and pour over oat mixture and then mix.  Be sure to disperse dates throughout.

 

 

 

Once mixed, transfer to an 8 x 8 inch baking dish.  Press mixture down thoroughly.

 

 

 

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm (approximately 15 to 20 minutes.)

 

Remove from pan and cut into individual bars.