Vegan Whole-Food Granola Bars

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rolled oats (Use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup Almonds (Chopped or whole)
• 1/2 cup Pumpkin seeds (Raw or roasted, unsalted)
• 1/2 cup Maple syrup (Or agave syrup for a different sweetness)
• 1/2 cup Nut butter (Almond or peanut butter works well)
• 1/4 cup Chia seeds (Optional for added nutrition)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract for best flavor)
• 1/4 tsp Salt (To enhance flavor)
• 1/2 cup Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots) (Chopped if large)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, mix together the maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

4. 4

   Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.

5. 5

   Fold in the dried fruit of your choice.

6. 6

   Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands.

7. 7

   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before lifting it out and cutting into bars.

9. 9

   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.