I think I’ve mentioned before that I’m the oldest of 5 kids. We’re all spaced 3 years apart, so the space between my youngest sister and I is a whopping 13 years! My sister Gracie has just joined the ranks of working adults by landing her first post college publishing gig in New York City (think she can get me a cookbook deal some day?)! She is living every girl’s Carrie Bradshaw dream.
A few weeks back she posted a picture on Instagram of herself eating soup on the floor of her very empty looking apartment and I decided that she must be in need of some sweet treats. Who needs furniture when you can have chocolate?
So David and I made up a couple of desserts to send her way. One was Chocolate Covered Katie’s Zucchini Brownies and the other were these nut free bars that will now and forever be called Gracie Bars.
They are similar to my homemade lara bars, but with no nuts. Why no nuts? Well, Gracie has never been a huge fan. She’s not allergic, but just doesn’t like them. I thought they would be perfect for kiddos that go to nut free schools and classrooms.
So here is a healthy treat that is easy to make—so easy that your 2 year old can help you! They are gluten free, vegan, nut and soy free, and guaranteed to make your family happy! Yay for raising happy, healthy eaters!
Gracie Bars
½ c sunflower seeds
¾ c oats
¾ c coconut
1 t vanilla
dash of cinnamon
2 T coconut oil
pinch of salt
25 dates
½ c mini chocolate chips (I like Enjoy Life allergen free chocolate chips)
Place sunflower seeds, oats, coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, coconut oil, salt and dates in a food processor. Process until the mix stays together when pinched, but is still a little chunky (you don’t want a paste). Add the chocolate chips in and pulse a couple more times to mix together.
Line an 8 x 8 baking pan in two directions with parchment paper (making a cross). Place the “dough” into the pan and press evenly. I find that it helps to wet my hands with cold water to press, preventing the dough from sticking.
Place in the freezer for a half an hour before cutting to let the mixture firm up. Cut into desired shapes/sizes. Store in fridge for longest lasting freshness. Pack in your little one’s school lunch, and remember to save some for yourself!
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