Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes. The bars are gluten-free as written though make sure you use gluten-free certified oats if cross-contamination is a concern.

Do I have to add maple syrup?

Not necessarily but it does help to bind the bars and adds a additional sweetness. You can leave it out, reduce the amount to 1-2 tbsp or substitute agave syrup or honey. If you omit it, blend the dough then add 1-2 tbsp water if the dough is too crumbly.

Easy No-Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips

Description

These soft and chewy, no-bake granola bars are made with just basic, inexpensive ingredients. Perfect for dessert, energy on the go or a pre-workout snack.

Ingredients

2 cups (340 g) soft, moist thompson raisins
3 tbsp (45 mL) maple syrup
1/2 cup (120 g) tahini
2 cups (100 g) rolled or quick oats (use gluten-free if needed)
1 cup (140 g) raw sunflower seeds
1/2 cup (85 g) dairy-free chocolate chips
1/2 tsp cinnamon, optional

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Instructions

Blend Raisins: Place the raisins in a food processor and mix until they start to break down into a crumbly, sticky mixture.
Blend Remaining Ingredients: Add everything else, except the chocolate chips and mix until it forms a thick, sticky dough. If the mixture seems to dry or crumbly, add 1 tbsp of water or an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or tahini and blend again. Add the chocolate chips and pulse a few times to mix them in.
Press Bars: Line a 7-8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or saran wrap so it sticks out over the edges of the pan. Press the dough into the pan until flat, spending a few minutes to firmly press it down and work it into the corners.
Chill: Place in the fridge or freezer for about an hour to firm. This is not required but will help the bars firm and bind together.
Slice Bars: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out the pan. Slice into 10 bars.

Notes

Raisins: If raisins are overly dry, soak in hot water for 15 minutes then drain well before use.

Substitutions: Tahini can be substituted with almond butter, sunflower seed butter or peanut butter. Sunflower seeds can be substituted with almonds, cashews or walnuts. Raisins can be substituted with soft, pitted dates.

Storing: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freezer for up to 3 months. I recommend storing the fridge or freezer, however, they’re ok at room temp for a few days if needed ie. in a lunchbox, camping, hiking, road trips. Keep cool if possible.

Keywords: no-bake granola bars, nut-free granola bars