How To Make Healthy Nut-Free Granola Bars

Ingredients
- 100g pitted dates 
- 4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for vegan version)
- 150g oats (or gluten free oats)
- 50g dried cranberries 
- 50g raisins 
- 50g pumpkin seeds
- 30g unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions
1. Heat oven to 200 degrees, and place oats on a lined baking tray for 10 minutes, or until fragrant. This step is not necessary as the bars can be made with uncooked oats, although I recommend toasting them in the oven for extra flavour.
2. Meanwhile, line a small baking pan (ideally around 8x8 inches) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
3. Using a food processor, mix dates and honey until they form a paste.
4. In a large bowl combine all the ingredients together. It will be easier to use your hands to ensure the oat mixture is coated in the date mix. This step gets very messy, but it’s worth it!

5. Transfer sticky mixture to the prepared pan and firmly press into an even layer. You can use the side of a mug to press down firmly.
6. Chill in freezer for about 20 minutes until firm. Lift out of tray, cut into bars and serve.
7. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.