There are so many healthy alternatives to sugar coated LCM and muesli bars on the market although many of them contain nuts making them a no-no for school lunch boxes and some work places due to strict allergy control.

Try these nut free banana granola bars. They are perfect to freeze and make for a wonderful lunch box idea. Not only are they nut free, but they are also gluten, dairy, refined sugar and soy free AND paleo friendly. Yep, these healthy bars tick all the boxes.

BANANA GRANOLA BARS – NUT FREE

3 cups old fashioned oats

3 large ripe bananas

3/4 cup shredded coconut

1/4 cup pepitas/sunflower seeds

1/4 cup goji berries

1/4 cup diced dried apricots

1 Tbs chia seeds

2/3 cup apple sauce

3 Tbs honey or maple syrup

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp sea salt

 

METHOD: Spread oats, coconut and seeds out on a baking tray and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly toasted. Meanwhile mash bananas and add all other ingredients. Fold in toasted oat mix and pour into a lined brownie/slice tray. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 45-50 minutes until brown. *varies between ovens so just watch carefully after 35 mins. Cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack. Cut into about 18 bars and store in the fridge. Great for freezing too!

 

Happy baking all

K