Healthy Granola Bars (Vegan/No Add Sugar)

By Tejal Hewitt @Tejal_x

These are probably my most healthiest bars yet with no added sugar, dairy or gluten they pretty much cater for all, plus they are tasty and crunchy!

Pumpkin seeds which are great as a snack but also a perfect addition to these bars adding a good source of protein, magnesium and zinc keeping the healthy granola bars nutritious.

Chia Seeds is another rich source of vitamin B, calcium, iron, magnesium and folate which almost makes the Healthy Granola bars a super food bar! Now in the EU, Chia seeds are approved to be used in bread unto to 5% - there is a geeky fact for you.

The based of the bars is oats with a such a low glycemic index and with daily servings oats can lower bad cholesterol and even reduce risk of heart disease. While babies and toddlers are young, we tend to give the porridge but then as kids we stop?! It's probably later in life that we realise how good it is for you and then start having it again for breakfast.

Now here is the non traditional twist, no butter, golden syrup or brown sugar but just pure and simple orange juice, ideally freshly squeezed by your own hands makes this so healthy. With some added spice of cinnamon and lovely plump dried fruit makes these bars just perfect!

Ingredients:
100g Raisins
250g Oats
1 Tsp Baking Soda
25g Pumpkin Seeds
25g Chopped Mixed Nuts
1 Tbsp Flaxseeds
1 Tsp Chia Seeds
1/2 Tsp Cinnamon
1/2 Tsp Vanilla
2 Tbsp Agave Nectar
3 Oranges

Add raisins, oats, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds and chopped mixed nuts to a large bowl.

Stir well and add baking soda and cinnamon, re stir.

To a cup squeeze fresh orange juice, vanilla extract and agave nectar.

Pour in the wet ingredients to the dry.

Stir well making everything is fully coated in the orange mixture.

Press the mixture into a lined greased baking tray.

Bake in the oven at 180c for 15-20 minutes until slightly golden brown.

Allow to cool and slice into smaller pieces - enjoy

Healthy Granola Bars ( Vegan/Gluten Free)

Healthy Granola bars with no added sugar, dairy and flour.