Homemade Granola Bars for Toddlers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe focuses on simple, natural ingredients that are easy to chew and digest, making it toddler-friendly. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and packed with fiber, healthy fats, and gentle sweetness from fruits and natural sweeteners—ideal for busy parents seeking healthy snacks.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup finely ground oats or oat flour

• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup natural almond butter or sunflower seed butter

• 1/4 cup finely chopped soft dried fruit (raisins, dates, or apricots)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Optional: 2 tablespoons finely chopped nuts (ensure no choking hazard)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, ground oats or oat flour, cinnamon, and optional nuts.

3. In another bowl, combine mashed banana, applesauce, almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in chopped dried fruit.

5. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set.

7. Let cool completely before cutting into small, toddler-friendly bars.

Servings and timing

Makes about 12 small bars
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for nut-free option.

• Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for extra fiber and omega-3s.

• Mix in finely grated carrot or zucchini for added veggies.

• Use pureed pumpkin or sweet potato instead of banana for seasonal variation.

• Swap dried fruit for small pieces of fresh soft fruit if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve at room temperature; no reheating needed.

FAQs

Are these bars safe for toddlers?

Yes, the bars use soft, natural ingredients and are cut into small, easy-to-chew pieces, but always supervise your child while eating.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, use sunflower seed butter and omit nuts or use seeds like pumpkin or chia.

Are these bars sweetened?

They rely on natural sweetness from banana, applesauce, and dried fruit—no added sugar.

Can I freeze these granola bars?

Yes, freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

How do I prevent bars from being too hard?

Don’t overbake; remove them as soon as the center is set and let cool completely.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, finely grated carrot or zucchini can be added without changing the texture much.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, use any nut or seed butter your toddler tolerates well.

How do I store leftover bars?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for freshness.

Are these bars suitable for baby-led weaning?

They can be, as long as bars are cut into appropriate sizes and your child has started eating solids.

Conclusion

Homemade Granola Bars for Toddlers offer a simple, wholesome, and customizable snack that supports healthy growth and development. Made with natural ingredients and toddler-safe textures, these bars are perfect for parents looking for nutritious, homemade alternatives to store-bought snacks. Enjoy making these bars for your little one’s daily nourishment and smiles.