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Gluten free, Nut free, Dairy free, Low Sugar, No Refined Sugar
This is delicious, super easy to make and a perfect alternative to store bought muesli bars as it is refined sugar free. No baking is required & unlike many other alternatives it also holds together nicely & doesn't crumble into bits. If nuts aren't an issue for you, then go ahead and add some crushed nuts for added protein or use a nut butter instead. This was actually adapted from a nutty granola slice recipe.
I prefer to use 100% pure maple syrup as it has a distinct flavour but without being too overpowering like honey can be. Rice malt syrup is milder in flavour and sweetness and sometimes I find you need to add more to get the similar taste. You may be able to reduce the quantity of maple syrup because of the high sweetness factor, just be mindful that it does help it stick together.
I worked out there are almost 2 teaspoons of sugar per slice, if you manage to make 24 slices from this recipe. Given that children are only supposed to be consuming 3 teaspoons of added sugar per day, and adults 6-9 teaspoons, this is definitely a treat. But at least it is a nutritious treat.
To make sure it is gluten free, you can use gluten free oats like Bob's Red Mill. Or swap it for puffed amaranth. I use Ceres organics for my puffed quinoa, puffed amaranth and sunflower butter. They are not the cheapest products but are nutritious, high in protein and will last for a number of batches. Simply store them in an airtight container. Or puff your own. I have't tried it myself yet, but apparently puffing quinoa is super easy in the oven. You can also use these gluten (gliadin) free ancient grains to make this healthy homemade cereal.
Super Seed Slice
1/2 cup 100% pure real maple syrup, honey, or organic rice malt syrup
1/2 cup sunflower seed butter (or a mix of tahini (1/4 c) and sunflower seed butter (1/4 c))
1 cup organic gluten free oats (like Bob's Red Mill) or puffed amaranth
1 cup puffed quinoa or millet (or puffed organic rice)
1/3 cup sunflower seeds or a mix with pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup flax seeds (linseed)
1/3 cup raisins, goji berries, dried blueberries or chopped sulphur free dried fruit such as Ceres organic apricots
1 Tablespoon Sacha inchi protein powder or unflavoured pea protein (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
1. Line a square or rectangular tin with baking paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl.
3. In a small saucepan gently melt together the unrefined sugar with the seed butter.
4. Add this melted mixture to the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Press firmly into the tin by using baking paper on top to prevent sticking. Press hard so it sticks together well.
6. Place in the fridge until hard.
7. Cut into slices and enjoy.