Healthy Habits: Homemade Granola Bars

Granola bars are well-known to be a "healthy" snack choice. But, sadly, not all bars are created equal. In fact, when it comes to nutrition, some granola bars are not much better for you than a candy bar (Chewy Bars we're looking at you!). Seriously, corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives just aren't good for you. Enter the homemade granola bar. They're packed full of energy. They are fully-customizable. And of course, no artificial flavors or preservatives necessary. And, bonus, they're super easy to make! Here's the recipe I used to make some kick-ass granola bars (if I do say so myself!). Feel free to sub out the nuts and fruits with your favorites.

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup raw brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1 1/2 cup of of almonds and hazelnuts, 1/2 finely ground and 1/2 coursely chopped
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup dried apples and dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons flaxseed

1. Put pitted dates in a saucepan. Cover with cold water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Drain. Purée dates in a food processor. 

2. Combine oats, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseed in an ungreased 9"x13"baking dish and toast in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Meanwhile, combine brown sugar, date purée, honey, butter or margarine, vanilla extract, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over low heat and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.

4. When oat and nut mix is done toasting put into a large mixing bowl and add dried fruit. Mix well.

5. Put sliced almonds in the oven to toast for 5-10 minutes or until slightly brown.

6. Next, stir contents of the saucepan into the ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Make sure everything is mixed together really well.

7. Line the 9"x13" baking dish with parchment or wax paper. Then, use a small amount of butter or margarine to grease the paper.

8. Empty contents of the large mixing bowl into baking dish. Use greased paper to flatten and press the mixture firmly into the pan.

9. Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds onto the top of the mixture and press again firmly with greased paper. 

10. Let cool. Then cut into bars and enjoy!