Apricot & Almond Granola Bars

Prep time

10 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

30 mins

These granola bars are lower in fat than the other homemade granola bars, which often use peanut butter as a binder. The skim milk powder adds protein, but you can replace it with protein powder for an extra boost. Don't like apricots and almonds? Use your favourite dried fruit and nuts, or try using another flavour extract.

Author: Allyson Connors, Dietetic Intern

Recipe type: Baked Goods, Snack, Vegetarian

Makes: 30

Ingredients

• 2 cups (500 mL) rolled oats

• 2 cups (500 mL) bran cereal, lightly crushed

• 1½ cup (375 mL) dried apricots, finely chopped

• 1 cup (250 mL) chopped almonds, walnuts or any other nut

• ½ cup (125 mL) whole wheat flour

• ½ cup (125 mL) chocolate chips

• 1 cup (250 mL) skim milk powder

• 1 tsp (5 mL) almond extract

• ½ cup (125 mL) honey

• 4 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Line a 9" x 13" baking dish with parchment paper, so that the parchment paper hangs slightly over the edge (This will make it easier to take the bars out later.)

2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, bran cereal, apricots, almonds, flour, chocolate chips, skim milk powder and almond extract.

3. In a medium bowl, stir together honey and eggs. Pour honey mixture over dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well-coated. Press mixture into prepared baking dish until well-packed.

4. Bake until edges are golden brown, about 20 minutes. Let cool completely before lifting the bars using the parchment paper onto a cutting board. Divide into 30 pieces. These can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but are actually best when stored in the freezer and eaten a little cold.