Nut-Free Granola Bars
My toddler loves these nut free bars! They are very customizable to fit whatever your child or yourself love!
•Ingredients•
4 cups sprouted or quick oats
1 cup milk powder
1/2 cup colostrum powder
2/3 cup raw honey
1/3 cup cane sugar
1/2 cup raisins
1/3 cup chocolate chips
1 tbsp vanilla
8 tbsp butter
•Directions•
Toast the oats at 350 in the oven for 5-10 minutes then place in a large bowl. Mix the colostrum and milk powder with the oats. If you don't have colostrum just substitute more milk powder. In a saucepan heat the butter, sugar, and vanilla together. Turn the heat off once the sugar has dissolved. Let the mixture cool and add the raw honey. Whisk together. Pour it over the oats and add the raisins. Mix well. Once everything has cooled add your chocolate chips. On a large baking sheet with parchment paper pour the oat mixture onto the surface and fatten it out with your hands or a rolling pin. I let the it all sit overnight and then I cut them into bars.
•Substitutions•
If you want to customize them to your liking just remember to keep the same ration of things. sometimes I will use 1 cup of cheerios and 2 cups of oats or instead of raisins I will use pumpkin seeds or more chocolate chips.
•Tips•
It is very important to add the raw honey after the mixture has cooled. the honey is what helps it stick together and keep its shape. the heat takes the ‘stickiness’ away from the honey.
Let me know if you try these and what you think!!💛
Nut-free granola bars are an excellent snack alternative for children and adults with nut allergies or sensitivities. Using simple ingredients like oats, milk powder, colostrum powder, and raw honey, these bars provide a nutritious, energy-packed option free from nut allergens. Raw honey plays a crucial role not only as a natural sweetener but also as the binding agent that helps the granola bars hold together when added after the mixture has cooled. This prevents the honey from losing its sticky qualities due to heat, ensuring a firm, moldable texture. Customization is easy with this recipe, allowing substitutions such as adding Cheerios, pumpkin seeds, or extra chocolate chips, which can accommodate various dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Sprouted oats, suggested in the recipe, offer enhanced digestibility and nutrient absorption compared to regular oats, making them a beneficial choice especially for young children. Additionally, incorporating colostrum powder can provide immune-supportive benefits, although it is optional and can be replaced with more milk powder if unavailable. Toasting the oats before mixing enhances their flavor and texture, contributing to a more enjoyable eating experience. When preparing granola bars at home, using parchment paper for rolling out the mixture ensures easy removal and clean cuts. Letting the bars set overnight allows them to firm up evenly. These homemade granola bars are free from artificial preservatives, making them a wholesome snack option compared to many store-bought granola bars that may contain nuts and added chemicals. For families managing nut allergies or looking for healthy toddler food ideas, these nut-free granola bars provide a safe, delicious, and customizable snack. They are ideal for lunchboxes, on-the-go snacks, or even simple treats at home. Always ensure to check ingredient sources for any hidden nut contamination to maintain safety for those with allergies. This recipe supports a healthy lifestyle through natural ingredients, versatility, and ease of preparation.