Date & Nut Granola Bars

These homemade granola bars are the perfect balance of wholesome, chewy, and delicious. Packed with toasted oats, crunchy almonds, nutrient-rich seeds, naturally sweet dates, and a touch of chocolate, they make a nourishing snack for busy mornings, lunch boxes, or an afternoon treat with your favourite cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups rolled oats

• 1 cup almonds, chopped

• ½ cup pumpkin seeds

• ½ cup sunflower seeds

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

• 2 cups dates, deseeded

• ½ cup peanut butter

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• Sprinkle of flaky sea salt (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Place the deseeded dates in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Allow them to soak for a few minutes until softened.

3. Spread the rolled oats, chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds onto a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. This step enhances the flavour and adds a delicious roasted nuttiness to the bars.

4. Drain the dates completely and pat them dry. Add them to a blender or food processor and pulse until they form a smooth paste.

5. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, nuts, seeds, cranberries, and mini chocolate chips with the date paste, peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Using gloved hands, mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using the back of a measuring cup, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Make sure it is tightly packed so the bars hold their shape once baked.

8. Sprinkle additional chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt (optional) over the top. Give it one final firm press to help everything stick together.

9. Bake at 325°F for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, depending on whether you prefer a softer, chewier texture or a firmer granola bar.

10. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Storage

Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They are perfect for meal prep and make an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.