I decided to try this recipe for oat bars as a substitute for the packaged organic versions for toddlers that I buy when I go food shopping. Picking up the box the other day I realised how ridiculously expensive they are for what you are actually getting… It’s amazing what marketing has done for healthy kids snacks and meals!

These bars would probably be suitable for toddlers of 12 months plus as they need some chewing.

They are pretty easy to make and you could store them in an airtight glass jar to keep as a healthy snack for either little one or yourself!

Please note, although they have no added sugar whatsoever. Dates, raisins and very ripe bananas do have a high natural sugar content so eat in moderation.

Ingredients:
3 large very ripe bananas
3 cups traditional rolled oats
1/4 cup finely chopped dried dates
1/4 cup finely chopped raisins
1/4 cup ground almonds
1/4 cup desiccated coconut
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Method:
Preheat oven to 180 degrees/gas mark 5. Line tray with baking paper.
Mash banana until smooth. Add all the other ingredients. Stir well until combined. Spoon into prepared pan. Flatten and make an even rectangle using the back of a spoon. Cook for 30-35 mins or until golden. Cool completely then cut into small bars and serve…

Try to use organic produce where possible so that these bars are just filled with the nutrients you need.

We tried these this morning and they went down very well as a mid morning snack for both mini Pearl, my mum Jules and I.

Enjoy x