Cinnamon Date Granola

We are doing a 21-day Sugar Elimination Challenge in the FASTer Way VIP this month, and it's my goal to figure out how I can still enjoy my favorite foods in a sugar free version!

First up....granola.

I eat a smoothie bowl at least 5 days a week, and let's be honest, the smoothie part is just the vehicle for getting the granola into my mouth.  So needless to say, if I'm going to be successful on this challenge, I need to find a way to make a sugar free version!

Dates are a great natural sweetener and, as an added bonus, they are really good for you too!  They have lots of nutrients, are high in fiber, and contain disease fighting antioxidants.   I think this is a winner!

​Here is how I made the granola:

Cinnamon Date Granola
200 grams pitted Medjool dates (about 10-12 dates)
1/2 cup water
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. pink Himalayan salt
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 cups gluten free rolled oats
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
3 Tbls. chia seeds

Preheat oven to 300.  In a blender or food processor, blend the dates, water, cinnamon, salt and vanilla until you get a date paste.  In a separate bowl, mix the oats, sunflower seeds and chia seeds.  Add the blended date mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.  

Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the granola mixture in an even layer.  Bake for 20 minutes.  Stir granola on the pan and bake for another 20 minutes.  Cool and store in an airtight container.  

Enjoy!  XO

Each 1/2 cup serving:  234 calories, 8g fat, 36g carbs, 6g protein