Looking for an easy fix after a long run?! I’ve got a simple, healthy and nutritionally packed granola bar recipe that will not only aid in replenishing some of the loss of nutrients after a hard workout, but it will also satisfy your taste buds… something the whole family will enjoy!

Speaking of family, raising 4 boys is not an easy chore. This is all new to me since I grew up with 2 sisters and only 1 brother. Getting accustomed to the testosterone level is a gradual process for sure. I am realizing a few things… boys don’t hug they wrestle, they don’t talk they scream, they don’t compliment each other they tease and they definitely don’t sit still they stand, jump and sometimes hang… especially at dinnertime. As much as it drives me crazy at times, I love it all the same… welcome to my life.

Since we are a very active household, it is important to maintain a balanced diet. Creating a nutritious snack is crucial for our health and well being. I have discovered there are several options and I used some of them to make this healthy granola bar recipe.

Gluten-Free Rolled Oats – contain a type of soluble fiber called beta glucan which aids in lowering LDL cholesterol levels. High in fiber, oatmeal will help you feel full longer, eases constipation and also controls blood sugar.

Nuts and Seeds – contain good fats called mono- and polyunsaturated fats. These fats help manage inflammation and maintaining the normal structure of every cell in our body. They are also high in protein which will help build muscle.

Dried Fruit – water is extracted from the fruit making the nutrients in raisins more concentrated. Rich in dietary fiber, carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, minerals, vitamins, and other micronutrients… but most important their fat content is low!

Apple – along with the numerous amounts of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, an apple polyphenols can make it easier to regulate blood sugar levels.

Hemp Seeds – a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also a rich source of a number of essential minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc.

Flax Seeds – another rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and it also contains dietary fibers, micronutrients, manganese, and vitamin B1 to name a few.

Chia Seeds – contain fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Other benefits include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and zinc.

Lucuma – is a subtropical fruit of the pouteria lucuma tree, which is native to Peru.  It used as a gluten-free sweetener and is a  great source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Lucuma may have anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and skin-repair effects on human skin.

Next time you are looking for a healthy snack to make you should definitely give this recipe a try!

Easy Homemade Cinnamon Apple Granola Bar

Print Recipe

The combination of these ingredients will make a simple snack that is nutritious and tastes great. A wonderful gluten-free and vegan option for a post workout replenisher or a healthy treat to hold you over until your next meal.

• CourseSnack
• CuisineGluten Free, Vegan

Servings

24

Servings 24

Easy Homemade Cinnamon Apple Granola Bar Print Recipe The combination of these ingredients will make a simple snack that is nutritious and tastes great. A wonderful gluten-free and vegan option for a post workout replenisher or a healthy treat to hold you over until your next meal. CourseSnack CuisineGluten Free, Vegan Servings 24 Servings 24

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup apples diced with skin
• 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 tbsp. hemp seeds
• 1 tbsp. ground flaxseed meal
• 2 tbsp. chia seeds
• 1 tbsp. lucuma powder
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple butter
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Servings:

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and mix them together.

   
3. In a pot add maple syrup, almond butter, apple butter and vanilla extract. Mix frequently over medium/low heat until all the ingredients are combined.

   
4. Add the wet ingredients with the dry ones and mix them all together.

   
5. Pour the combined ingredients into pyrex, preferable a square 8x8in size and smooth it down with a spatula. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown.

   

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What is your favorite snack?

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