Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

My BFF Amy was searching for a healthy breakfast option for her little, Lolo. The requirements for this non-existent vital were foods high in vitamin C, iron, and no unnecessary fluff (i.e. sugars, fats, etc.). After some brainstorming a granola bar was created.

Rarely, ok never, have I ever just thrown something together without an actual recipe. The sheer thought of baking without a recipe is about enough to send me into heart failure. My delight was immeasurable when Amy emailed me the recipe of our combined thoughts, and her efforts. 

Marcus has no problem downing these, which is a small miracle in and of itself. The texture is super soft and spongy, which makes it easy for the little ones to eat them. 

These granola bars are full of flavor and dense, so a little goes quite a ways. But, what I love most about these bars is that I know EXACTLY what is going into Marcus' mouth.

Did I fail to mention how easy they are to make? Whoops. They're ridiculously easy.

Soft and Chewy Granola Bars

2 cups oatmeal (not quick oats)
1 can mandarin oranges, partially drained and mashed
3/4 cup raisins
3/4 cup chopped fruit (I used 1/4 cup blueberries, 1/4 cup strawberries, 1/4 cup cantaloupe)
*1 cup Quinoa flakes
1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup honey (optional)
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350.
Combine all ingredients well.
Press into an 8x8 pan.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until edges become golden brown.
Slice into bars.
Store in fridge or freezer (depending on how long you are storing them).

*I was unable to find Quinoa in my hometown so, I simply added another cup of oats.

This is such a versatile recipe and action packed with so many good things. I love that I can switch it up, use almost any fruit, and make it a little different each time I make it.
Yum-o!

ENJOY!

Source: From the kitchen of the BFF, Amy D.