These sweet, chewy granola bars make a delicious snack or dessert for any time of day. They are perfect for travel, school lunches, or snacks on the go. I added coconut shavings and chocolate chips to mine for an extra treat. They are so versatile that you can practically use whatever add-ins you like. Try these today and you will never go back to store-bought granola bars!

Note: This recipe was inspired by famous TV chef, Alton Brown. It is written primarily in ounces, so use a digital kitchen scale to get the most accurate results.

Easy Granola Bars
Makes 12 bars
Ingredients:
8 ounces regular rolled oats
1.5 ounces pumpkin seeds, raw and shelled
3 ounces almonds, chopped
1.5 ounces oat bran
1 ounce flax seeds, ground
6 ounces agave nectar
1.75 ounces dark brown sugar
1 ounce vegan non-hydrogenated margarine or coconut butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
6.5 ounces chopped dried fruit (cranberries, currants, apricots, or any fruit you like)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper. Toast the dry ingredients (except the flax seeds) on a sheet pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Measure wet ingredients into a medium saucepan and heat over medium, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add dry ingredients to saucepan and mix completely.
3. Place mixture into the prepared pan, and spread the mixture around. Place another sheet of parchment on top of the mixture and press down firmly and evenly with the bottom of another pan. Remove the top sheet of parchment paper and place pan in oven.
4. Bake for 25 minutes. Cool completely and lift the parchment paper and baked bars from the pan. Cut into 12 pieces and store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
Recipe created by Allison Rivers Samson, Maven of Mmmm…
at www.AllisonsGourmet.com


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