RECIPE: Chewy Granola Bars

Words: Fiona Herron
Photo: Chris Herron

Granola bars are an awesome and versatile snack to have on hand – whether you are running late in the morning and need an on-the-go-breakfast option or you’d just like to add some variety to your ride nutrition. These chewy (and yet crunchy!) granola bars are perfect and will last for months when stored in the fridge. 

One of the great things about these bars is that if you have a favourite granola (whether it be your own bake, or a store-bought version) you get to have another excuse to eat it! This recipe is also moist enough to accommodate your protein powder if you are looking for ways to include more protein in your diet. It is the release of healthy oils from the cashew nuts, sunflower seeds and the coconut oil that you can thank for this texture.

However, the cashew nuts and sunflower seeds don’t just contribute healthy fats. Cashew nuts are also rich in fibre, protein, vitamins C, B and folate. While, sunflower seeds are known for their anti-inflammatory properties due their high levels of vitamin E and certain flavonoids. And, the evidence is clearly showing that reducing inflammation in the body is crucial for avoiding unnecessary chronic diseases.

So quick, and so easy – with only five ingredients, there is no reason not to make these chewy granola bars and have them stored in your fridge whenever you need them.

Ingredients

Use organic where possible and always read ingredient labels.

– 1 cup chopped and pitted medjool dates

– ½ cup chopped raw cashews

– ¼ cup raw sunflower seeds

– 1 tsp coconut oil

– 2 cups granola (or a mix of roasted oats and dried fruits and nuts if you prefer)

Method

1. Using a food processor, blitz the cashews and sunflower seeds until combined and crumbly
2. Add chopped dates and coconut oil to the blender and blitz until the texture of the mixture is a wet cookie dough 
3. In a large mixing bowl pour in the granola and the soft mix from the blender
4. Using gloves combine the ingredients together with your hands – the mix should press together easily 
5. Press the mix into a baking paper-lined tray – use a rolling pin or glass jar/bottle to make sure it is levelled evenly
6. Place in the fridge to cool/set for 10-15mins

• Cut into approximately 10 pieces and store in the fridge.

Nutrition per serve (approx 40g serve):

Energy – 654kJ

Protein – 3.6g

Fat – 8.0g

Carbohydrate – 16.1g