Keeping kids energized and satisfied between meals can sometimes be tricky. Store-bought snacks often contain added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors. A great solution? homemade granola bars! They are healthy, customizable, and fun to make together with your children.
Why Choose Homemade Granola Bars?
Homemade granola bars offer many benefits:
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Controlled Ingredients: You know exactly what goes in no hidden sugars or additives.
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Nutrient-Packed: Include whole grains, nuts (if allergy-safe), seeds, and dried fruit for vitamins and minerals.
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Customizable: Tailor flavors to your child’s preference with chocolate chips, honey, or peanut butter.
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Portable and Convenient: Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or on-the-go energy.
Simple Nutritious Granola Bar Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups rolled oats
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1 cup chopped dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
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1/2 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
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1/2 cup natural nut butter or seed butter (allergy-friendly)
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1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
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In a large bowl, mix oats, dried fruit, and seeds.
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In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter and honey until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.
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Press the mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden.
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Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips for Extra Nutrition:
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Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for omega-3s.
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Sprinkle with cinnamon for a natural flavor boost.
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Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
Fun Ideas to Get Kids Involved
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Let them choose their favorite dried fruits or seeds.
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Allow them to press the mixture into the pan.
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Create fun shapes with cookie cutters once the bars are set.
Storage
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Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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Freeze individually wrapped bars for a convenient long-term snack option.
Final Thoughts
Homemade granola bars are a delicious, nutritious, and safe snack option for kids. They combine energy-boosting ingredients with the joy of a homemade treat. Plus, making them together can be a fun family activity!
