While it is ultra convenient to grab a box of granola bars off the grocery store shelf, I can't help but get super skived out by the ingredient list. If you are looking for a healthier snack or breakfast option for you and your family, try making your own bars. I usually start with my own base of quick oats, mix in a few tablespoons of flax seed (for some heart healthy omegas and fiber), toss in some dried fruit, a squeeze of honey or agave and a dash of brown sugar. I have self diagnosed ADD, so I don't usually follow recipes, but if you are looking for something more concrete, the following recipe is from a September 2010 article in The Food Network Magazine:
"Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a sauce pan with 1/3 cup
each of brown sugar and honey, add a pinch of salt. Mix in 2 cups rolled oats, 1 cup each of chopped nuts and dried fruit, and 2 tablespoons wheat germ. Press into a parchement-lined-8 inch-square pan and bake 30 minutes at 300 degrees. Cool and cut into bars"
I usually use less butter, brown sugar and honey to keep things light. Remember, the more dried fruit and nuts, the higher in calories the bars with be. Feel free to replace the wheat germ with flax seed or use both. The consistency should still be fine. If you are looking for a gluten free option, or a bar with more protein, try replacing the oats for quinoa. YUM!
