Super-Food Cinnamon Granola Bars

Preheat the oven to 200 C (400 F) and line a 5×7 inch tray with baking paper allowing the edges of the paper to hang over the edges of the tray.

Using a food processor or regular blender, blend the apple, dates and water until they form a smooth puree. Combine all of the remaining ingredients in a bowl and then add in the fruit puree and stir until well combined.

Plop the mixture into the prepared tray and press it down very thoroughly using a metal spoon (this is pretty crucial in ensuring that the bars hold together).

Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges just begin to color. Remove from the oven and leave them in the tin until completely cool, allowing the bars to firm up and set. Once cooled, you can lift them out of the tin, remove the paper and chop into slices using a big sharp knife. I cut this into 12 small squares, but you could also go for 6 long bars or whatever you fancy.

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Wrap bars individually in baking paper for kid-friendly lunch-box granola bars that hands down beat the store bought variety.