- Prep-time: / Ready In:
- Makes 20 bars
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These nutrient-packed dried fruit bars bake low and slow in the oven, but the active prep time is relatively short, and the end result will be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. A hearty blend of oats, millet, quinoa, pepitas, and sunflower seeds form the base of these crunchy snack squares, while dried apricots and raisins add bursts of tart fruity goodness. Applesauce and date paste add natural sweetness and act as binders, ensuring everything holds together. Keep a batch of these bars on hand to eat as an afternoon snack or to take with you on an outdoor adventure. Pro tip: They taste better the second day and store very well for about a week at room temperature in an airtight container.
For more snack bar inspiration, check out these tasty ideas:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dry millet, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon dry quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup raw pepitas
- ½ cup unsalted sunflower seed kernels
- 1 cup Date Paste
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup finely chopped dried figs
- ¼ cup finely chopped dried apricots
- ¼ cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large skillet toast millet and quinoa over medium 5 to 7 minutes or until completely dry and toasty, stirring occasionally.
- Add oats, pepitas, and sunflower seeds to skillet. Cook 10 minutes or until seeds are lightly browned. Transfer toasted grains and seeds to a large bowl. Add the remaining ingredients; mix well. Spread mixture on prepared pan into an even 10×8-inch rectangle.
- Bake 2 hours or until firm and crisp on top. Let cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into 20 squares.
Comments (5)
(0 from 0 votes)This is one of my favorite recipes! My husband and friends love these bars too. This recipe really packs so many healthy foods into a delicious snack!
I would like to make these but after Wendi and Crystal comment, I will try adding more date syrup or stewed apple and see if they hold together. they sound so delicious
What can be added to make these stay together?
Hi Wendi, If you're having trouble getting the ingredients to bind together, you could add a touch more dried fruit and/or Date Paste. Let us know how it goes!
Even after cooling completely these would not hold together as a bar. Maybe they need a flax egg? So we'll pour milk over it and eat it as granola! Quite tasty!