How To Make Toddler Granola Bars

Ramon De

2 min read

·

10-02-2025

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Making homemade granola bars for toddlers can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to control the ingredients and ensure a healthy and delicious snack. This recipe focuses on simple, wholesome ingredients suitable for little ones, while offering a fun and engaging activity for parents and children alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts – choose one or a mix, but always supervise toddlers around nuts)
• ¼ cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, or chia seeds)
• ¼ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots – choose softer varieties)
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to your preference)
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan (approximately 8x8 inches) with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. If using, add cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil (or olive oil), and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to firmly press the mixture into an even layer.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola bars are golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Cool & Cut: Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This will prevent them from crumbling.
8. Storage: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips for Toddler-Friendly Granola Bars:

• Avoid Choking Hazards: Finely chop nuts and dried fruits to minimize choking risks. Always supervise toddlers while they eat.
• Allergy Awareness: Be mindful of any allergies your child may have and choose ingredients accordingly. Clearly label any potential allergens.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your preference. You can also use less and add a touch of mashed banana for natural sweetness.
• Creative Variations: Get creative with additions! Try adding shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips (unsweetened or dark chocolate is healthier), or different types of seeds. Remember to keep the portion sizes small and suitable for little ones.
• Make it a Family Affair: Involve your toddler in the process (with supervision, of course!) – measuring ingredients, mixing, or even pressing the mixture into the pan can be a fun and educational activity.

Making homemade granola bars is a great way to provide your toddler with a nutritious and delicious snack. By following these simple steps and adjusting the recipe to suit your child’s preferences, you can create a healthy treat the whole family can enjoy. Remember to always prioritize safety and adjust ingredients to accommodate any allergies or dietary restrictions.