Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bar For Kids

Soft, chewy, and delicious, this nutritious gluten-free granola bar is the perfect snack for even the pickiest kids. Packed with ingredients they love and allergy-friendly, it’s an ideal treat for school lunches or after-school snacking.

Let’s dive into making this Wholesome Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bar

Key Ingredients

To make these gluten-free granola bars, you’ll need:

1. Certified Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: The base of our granola bars, providing a hearty texture and natural sweetness.
2. Puffed Quinoa or Rice: Adds a light crunch and boosts the nutritional value.
3. Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: Offers a mild coconut flavor and chewiness.
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps bind the ingredients together.
5. Pure Maple Syrup: Lightly sweetens the bars and gives them a rich flavor.
6. Chocolate Chips: Adds a touch of indulgence and kids love them.
7. Optional Add-ins: Nuts and dried fruit (such as raisins, cherries, chopped apricots, or dates) can be added for extra texture and flavor, though they are not needed for a delicious granola bar.

The Details in Preparing Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bar

• Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the certified gluten-free rolled oats, gluten-free flour blend, puffed quinoa or rice, unsweetened shredded coconut, and optional dried fruit. Mix in the baking soda and chocolate chips.
• Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
• Mix Everything Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using your hands or a spatula, mix until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but manageable.
• Bake the Bars: Press the mixture FIRMLY into a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown.
• Cool and Slice: Allow the granola bars to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them using the parchment paper to a cutting board. Slice into bars or squares of your desired size. Let them cool completely before storing.

Storing Your Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bars

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and quality of your homemade granola bars. Here’s how you can keep them delicious and chewy:

Short-Term Storage

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the granola bars within a week, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and chewy.
• Parchment Paper: For best results, layer the bars with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This is especially useful if you’re stacking them in a container.

Long-Term Storage

• Refrigeration: To extend their shelf life, you can store the granola bars in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Tips for Freshness

• Avoid Moisture: Ensure that the storage container is dry before placing the bars inside. Excess moisture can make them soggy.
• Label and Date: If freezing, label the container with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
• Keep Away from Heat: Store the bars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their texture and flavor.

With these storage tips, you can keep your gluten-free granola bars fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you need a tasty and nutritious snack!

MORE GLUTEN-FREE SNACKS TO EXPLORE

Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bar For Kids

Chocolate Covered Coconut Bars

Walnut And Fig Healthy Energy Bar

Very Best Gluten Free Nanaimo Bars

Gluten-Free Puffed Rice Energy Bar

Gluten-Free Chewy Granola Bar For Kids: Recipe Review

This gluten-free granola bar recipe is a standout choice for a wholesome, homemade snack. The bars are chewy with just the right amount of sweetness, thanks to the pure maple syrup. The optional add-ins of nuts and dried fruit add variety, but even without them, these bars are a hit with kids.

The granola bars offer a good balance of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious alternative to many store-bought options.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its simplicity and flexibility. You can easily adapt it to fit your family’s taste preferences or dietary needs. The ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and pure maple syrup ensures that the bars are not only delicious but also healthier.

Plus, they are budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making them a great addition to any snack routine. Overall, these granola bars are a wonderful homemade treat that will satisfy both kids and adults alike.