Low Sugar Granola Bars
Why low sugar granola bars?
Everyone loves a granola bar but often times shop bought bars will be high in refined sugar and inflammatory oils such as rapeseed oil.
1. Nutrient Dense Ingredients: These bars are packed with nutrient dense ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and well-being.
2. Whole Foods: Unlike many store-bought energy bars that contain processed ingredients and added sugars, these bars are made from whole, unprocessed foods. They contain no artificial additives or preservatives, making them a wholesome and nourishing snack option.
3. Balanced Macronutrients: With a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, these bars provide sustained energy to fuel your body throughout the day. The oats and dried fruits supply complex carbohydrates for long lasting energy, while the nuts and nut butter contribute protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
4. Low Added Sugar: By using unsweetened apple puree and naturally sweet dried fruits like dates or apricots, these bars contain significantly less added sugar compared to many commercial energy bars. This helps prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, promoting stable energy and mood.
5. Customisable and Versatile: This recipe is highly customisable, allowing you to tailor the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, or add extras like chia seeds or dark chocolate chips for added nutrition and flavour. Plus, these bars are portable and convenient, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or pre/post-workout fuel.
6. Rich in Dietary Fibre: The combination of rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits in these bars provides a significant amount of dietary fibre. Fibre is essential for digestive health, promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Additionally, fibre helps you feel full and satisfied after eating, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
7. Promotes Blood Glucose Balance: Unlike many commercially processed snacks that are high in refined sugars and simple carbohydrates, these homemade energy bars contain complex carbohydrates from oats and dried fruits. These complex carbs are digested more slowly, leading to gradual increases in blood glucose levels and sustained energy release. Additionally, the presence of protein and healthy fats in the bars helps further stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing sharp spikes and crashes that can lead to fatigue and cravings. As a result, these bars support overall blood glucose balance and can help prevent energy fluctuations throughout the day.
Overall, these homemade energy bars offer a healthier alternative to store-bought options, providing a delicious and nutritious snack that nourishes your body without compromising on taste or quality.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of your choice)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened apple puree (can be bought in jars from the supermarket)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (such as chopped dates, apricots, or figs)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well to combine.
2. In a small saucepan, heat almond butter and unsweetened applesauce over low heat until melted and well combined.
3. Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the mixture sticks together.
4. Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the dish and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
5. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
6. Once chilled, remove the energy bar mixture from the dish and cut it into individual bars or squares.
7. Store the homemade energy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy these low-sugar homemade energy bars as a nutritious snack or on-the-go fuel without the added sugars found in store-bought alternatives. Feel free to customise the recipe with your favourite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a personalised touch.