Granola Bars

I have always tried to make granola bars, but many of the recipes are so extensive, containing ingredients that are not common, that I end up just buying them at the store.  Now, I have found a healthier version which can be altered to whatever dietary restrictions you may encounter.  Normally, this recipe calls for wheat germ, but I had ground flax seed in my fridge to use as a substitute.  It also calls for almonds, but since my husband is allergic to nuts, I omitted that.  As well, I had leftover dried tropical fruit from my son's birthday party, but any dried fruit will work well.  I halved the sugar content, and I think it can be omitted altogether as the honey, coconut and dried fruits add enough sweetness.

Granola Bars
(Adapted From The Barefoot Contessa)

Makes 40 small squares

2 c old-fashioned oatmeal

1 c shredded coconut, loosely packed

*1 c sliced almonds (not included in mine, but can use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or any other nut)

1/2 c ground flax seed *recipe normally calls for wheat germ

3 T unsalted butter

2/3 c honey

1/8 c light brown sugar *recipe normally calls for 1/4 c, but I halved it

1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

1 1/2 c chopped dried fruit (can use dried dates, cranberries, apricots, mango, papaya, pineapple, etc)

On a baking sheet, combine oats and coconut (and nuts if using), and cook in a 350F oven until lightly toasted (about 10 min).  Pour into a large bowl and add the flax.  reduce the oven temperature to 300F.

 

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla and salt.  Bring to a boil over medium heat and stir for a minute.  Pour over the oat mixture and add in the chopped dried fruit, mixing well.

 Pour into a greased baking sheet, and press into the pan with wet fingers.  Bake in oven for 25-30 min, until golden brown.  Let cool 2-3 hours and slice.

Nutrients per Serving (per one serving of recipe)

Calories (kcal)	88
Fat (g)	2.3
Protein (g)	1.4
Carbohydrate (g)	16.8
Sugar (g)	11
Fibre (g)	1.5