Cranberry Granola Bars

Naturally sweet dates make this recipe a winner with no added sugars. Perfect to tuck into a kid’s lunchbox when using soy butter, but for an after school treat feel free to use any of your favourite nut butters.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped and pitted medjool dates
• 1 cup (250 mL) orange juice
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) soy or nut butter
• 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla
• 1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon
• 2 cups (500 mL) large flake oats
• 1/3 cup (75 mL) wheat germ
• 2 tbsp (25 mL) ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) dried cranberries or raisins

Directions:

• In a small saucepan, combine dates and orange juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until very soft. Add soy butter, vanilla and cinnamon and stir until smooth. In a large bowl, combine oats, wheat germ, flaxseed and cranberries. Pour over date mixture and stir to combine. Spread into a parchment paper lined 8 inch (1.5 L) baking pan and press down evenly. Bake in a 350 F (180 C) oven for about 25 minutes or until golden and firm to the touch. Let cool before cutting into bars. TIP: Wrap bars individually for ease to pop into lunches. For a chewier bar, simply store in the refrigerator. These bars will last up to 1 week at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 15 min.
Cook Time: 25 min.
Makes: 12 bars

Source: www.heartandstroke.com (recipe provided by Emily Richards, PH Ec.).