DIY Granola Bars

I love granola bars! However, most store-bought granola bars contain more soy than I would like for myself and my family to consume. After searching for a recipe that works for me, I finally found one (at kneadtocook.com). They taste delish - a little crumbly - but delish. Hopefully I can work with them and they won't crumble so much in the future. I did add some chocolate chips...mainly because I love chocolate :). Give them a try yourself! Find the recipe below!

Ingredients

• 1 heaping cup of dates
• 1 cup of whole almonds, raw
• 1 1/3 cup of rolled oats
• 1/8 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup of almond butter (or whatever nut butter you prefer)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

In your food processor, add the pitted dates and process for about 30-45 seconds or until they break down and then roll up into a large ball. Remove and place in your stand mixer with the paddle attached. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Ona baking sheet with sides, add the oats (one side) and your almonds (on the other). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until just toasted. Give the almonds a chance to cool down and then roughly chop them. Add the oats and nuts to your dates in the stand mixer bowl. Add the sea salt. Mix until combined.

On the stovetop in a small sauce pan, add the nut butter, vanilla, and syrup over low heat and whisk until melted and smooth. Pour over the oat mixture and blend again until well coated. Add your additional toppings here. I used chocolate chips!