Date Granola Bars
Description
These homemade date granola bars are the perfect balance of chewy texture and natural sweetness. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with refined sugars, these rely on the deep, caramel-like flavor of dates to bind the oats and nuts together. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the earthy tones of the granola, while a touch of peach juice adds a subtle fruity brightness. Ideal for lunchboxes, post-workout refueling, or a quick breakfast on the go, these bars hold up well in storage and offer a hearty, fiber-rich option. They are naturally vegetarian and can be adapted for diabetic-friendly diets by watching portion sizes. Simple to assemble and bake, they bring a comforting, homemade quality to your daily routine.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking pan with butter-flavored cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked date granola, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the dry ingredients.
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In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the egg substitute, peach juice, and melted margarine until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
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Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the granola. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the oats and dates are moistened and the mixture sticks together when pressed.
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Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the corners, ensuring a compact layer that will hold together when baked.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top looks set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a chewy texture.
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Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for the bars to set properly before cutting.
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Once cooled, lift the block out of the pan using the parchment paper or by running a knife around the edges. Cut into 16 equal bars using a sharp knife.
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Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage. Enjoy as a quick breakfast or snack.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 39.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.9g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.3g2%
- Cholesterol 21.0mg8%
- Sodium 7.3mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 1.8g
- Protein 1.4g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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