Vanilla-Apricot Granola Bars

Searching for the perfect summer time snack can be hard, especially as a mom. I’m always on the look out for a quick treat that will work for both me and the kid!

I decided it was time to roll up my sleeves and bake something. I wanted to use some of the great produce that is around town. I’m all about buying local, so make sure you check out some of the great farmers markets in your area. You are guaranteed to find the best fruits & veggies from your neighbors!

This idea came to me right after my first attempt at Oven Dried Apricots. I was chopping up another batch for round two, when it occurred to me that these would be great in a granola bar…

Dax loves granola bars.

We should probably just buy stock in Quaker Chewy Bars.

I just don’t know how healthy they really are for you… I mean… have you read the back of the box? Those tiny things are packed with sugar!

So here is my healthy version. Using my oven, dried apricots, AND homemade vanilla granola!

Vanilla & Apricot Granola Bars
{recipe only slightly adapted from the one found @food.com}

1 Cup vanilla granola (recipe coming soon)
1 Cup rolled oats
1/2 Cup chopped dried apricots
1/2 Cup chopped dried cranberries
1/2 C. white whole wheat flour
1 egg
1/2 Cup honey
1/4 Cup canola oil
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

PREP WORK: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Line a 7×11 inch pan with foil, and spray with non-stick spray. Set aside.

MIX, MIX, MIX: Combine your granola, oats, fruit, and flour in a giant Ziploc. Seal, and shake it up.

In a separate bowl, mix together the egg, honey, oil and cinnamon. Stir in the dry ingredients. Pour into your pan, and pat firmly into the pan.

BAKE IT: Bake your bars for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cool in the pan, then gently lift out using the foil. Cut into bars, and voila!

Prep time is about five minutes, and the sugar is reduced dramatically from the store bought version. I’m sure you could even add in chocolate bits, or take out the fruit. The fact that the recipe is so versatile really appeals to me. I think we might play around with different flavors this week!

Side not: If you are wondering about storage… you can keep these in a sealed container for about three days. If you want to make a large batch, just toss them in the freezer, and they should be good to go for three months.