Homemade Caramel Apple Granola Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Fruit & Sweeteners
01 -
2 cups pitted dates
02 -
1 1/2 cups dried apples, chopped
03 -
1 tablespoon maple syrup
→ Grains & Nuts
04 -
2 cups rolled oats
05 -
1 cup almonds, coarsely chopped
06 -
1/4 cup whole flaxseeds
→ Flavorings & Liquids
07 -
4 tablespoons coconut oil
08 -
1/2 cup water
09 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 -
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread oats, almonds, and flaxseeds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake until light brown, stirring occasionally, about 10-15 minutes
02 -
Grease an 8x8-inch pan, line with parchment paper, then grease the parchment
03 -
Process dates and water in a food processor until they form a smooth paste, scraping down sides as needed
04 -
Transfer date paste to a large saucepan with coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Cook on medium heat until mixture darkens, about 5-7 minutes
05 -
Fold toasted oat mixture into date mixture. Add chopped dried apples and stir until evenly distributed
06 -
Spread mixture into prepared pan and press down firmly with a piece of parchment paper to level the surface
07 -
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. When solid, lift from pan using parchment paper and cut into 12 bars with a sharp knife
# Notes:
01 -
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 weeks
02 -
Bars can be wrapped individually for easy grab-and-go snacks
03 -
Safe in a lunch box for up to 5 hours if not in direct sunlight