10/15

Snack Duty | No-Bake Granola Bars

At Brookie’s preschool, it’s not just snack day, it’s snack week. I mean, I’ll be honest. When this was first brought to my attention, I was intimidated. Gone are the days that I would just pick up a bag of chips or an apple and call it good. If I like to keep it at healthy at home, I definitely want to keep it just as healthy at school.

This week was Brooksie’s turn to make his own snack menu. I’ve said it before – he absolutely LOVES helping his momma in the kitchen. This kid is either going to be a professional chef or a great husband … I swear. We decided to make a batch of no-bake granola bars for his friends at school. Not only are they are super kid-friendly to make but they are healthy and delicious, too. Most store-bought granola or cereal bars are loaded with artificial sugar. It’s kind of a given that sugar needs to be kept at an all-time low for already hyper pre-schoolers.

These granola bars are perfect for any school snack or soccer practice treat. Your kids can help you with every step of the way! Throw them in little separate bags tied with ribbon to really make the presentation special.

No-Bake Granola Bars

(Makes 10 bars)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless raisins
• ¼ cup honey or agave nectar
• ¼ cup creamy salted natural almond butter
• 1 ½ cup rolled oats
• Handfuls of either chocolate chips, cacao nibs, coconut flakes, or dried fruit (optionall)

STEP 1: Sprinkle oats on baking sheet.

STEP 2: Place baking sheet in oven at 350 F for 15 minutes or until golden brown. This is just for a more toasted flavor. It’s not necessary. Take Brooksie’s lead and watch them toast while enjoying some almonds.

STEP 3: Process raisins in a food processor until it’s in dough like consistency. Add to bowl with oats, almonds, and any extras (cacao nibs, coconut flakes, etc.)

STEP 4: Warm honey or agave nectar and almond butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir and pour over oat mixture and then mix.

STEP 5: Once mixed, transfer to 8 x 8 pan lined with parchment paper. Flatten out using another layer of parchment paper as aid.

STEP 6: Place in freezer for 15 minutes to even an hour to harden. Once hard, cut into squares. Place extra granola bars in airtight container to store for freshness. Enjoy!