Gourmet Granola Bars

Like so many others, I get tired of making lunches to take to work every day. I know it's cheaper and healthier and less wasteful to bring your own food, but sometimes the laziness takes over and I just go out and buy something. Not only is it not good for my bank account, but when you're keeping track of calories, protein, fibre - whatever - it's hard to control your intake when you didn't make the food yourself. It's a bad habit.

So, after several days of buying lunches and having cereal for dinner, I decided I would make a huge batch of granola bars so at least I would have something substantial and homemade to take to work every day. I found this basic recipe and thought up a few different varieties that I wanted to try. I went to my friendly neighbourhood Bulk Barn again (they're starting to recognize me) and loaded up on fruit, nuts, and other bits and pieces to put in my bars. They have everything from protein powders to fibre supplements, so you can really make a powerhouse batch of granola bars if you're so inclined.




You can substitute the 3 cups of fruit, nuts, and chocolate in this recipe for anything that strikes your fancy. You can add 3 cups of one thing, or 6 half-cups of a bunch of things - whatever you want! I made three different kinds, using the fruit-nut-chocolate ratio: raspberry/pistachio/white chocolate, tart cherry/almond/dark chocolate, and blueberry/walnut/Greek yogurt chips. I have one in my lunch today and I can't wait to eat it later! Hopefully this is the beginning of a good habit.

Basic Granola Bars

Adapted from Easy Granola Bars on Allrecipes
Makes about a dozen large bars

3 cups quick-cook oats

1 cup flaked coconut

1 heaping tablespoon psyllium husks (optional - for additional fibre)
pinch of salt

1 (300 mL) can sweetened condensed milk

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 cup dried fruit (eg. dried raspberries, cherries, blueberries, etc.)
1 cup chopped unsalted nuts or seeds

1 cup mini chocolate chips (or yogurt chips, peanut butter chips, etc.)

Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C and line a 9x13 baking dish with parchment (or grease it thoroughly). In a large bowl, mix together your dry ingredients. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and butter until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared pan; wet your fingers with water (to reduce stickiness) and press the mixture flat. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. 

Allow the bars to cool for 10-15 minutes, then cut into bars with a sharp knife. Cool for about another hour, then using your knife, loosen the bars around the edges of the pan and carefully remove each bar. Wrap them in parchment or plastic wrap and store in the fridge or freezer.