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Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

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overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.

Magic bars were one of my favorite childhood treats! My mom had a few dessert recipes she rotated through – her famous watergate salad was a big one, and 7-layer magic bars were a close second. So when I got hit with this insane craving for magic bars, I looked up a few recipes and was pretty shocked by what I found. Most magic bars are made with tons, and I mean TONS of processed sugar. Though since I’ve basically made it my life’s work to turn our favorite desserts into healthier ones, I knew I had to get working on a healthier magic bar recipe!

This recipe took quite a few tries, but I ultimately perfected it! I used the same almond flour shortbread crust as my healthy pecan pie bars recipe, and riffed off my healthy vegan caramel sauce for a healthier sweetened condensed milk alternative. I then topped these bars with plenty of coconuts, chopped nuts, and of course – chocolate chips! The end result is a bar just as indulgent as the classic magic bars we all know and love, made with healthier ingredients and a fraction of the sugar. I just know you’re gonna LOVE these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just maple syrup and coconut cream for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients, one bowl for the crust, and a short bake time.
  • Customizable – Easily make them nut-free, keto-friendly, or extra chocolatey!
a healthy gluten-free magic bar with a bite taken out.

What Makes These Magic Bars Healthier?

Traditional magic bars are loaded with processed sugars and condensed milk, but this healthier version swaps in:

  • Almond flour for a grain-free, nutrient-dense crust.
  • Maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
  • Coconut cream for a dairy-free caramel alternative.
  • Dark chocolate chips with minimal added sugar, or opt for a refined sugar-free chocolate chip like these!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For Extra Firm Bars – Let them chill in the fridge overnight before slicing.
  • For More Chocolate Flavor – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
  • For a More Caramel-Like Texture – Use cashew butter instead of almond butter.
two healthy gluten-free magic bars stacked on top of each other.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Nut-Free Option – Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter and swap the nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Keto-Friendly Option – Substitute maple syrup with a keto-friendly syrup and use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Refined Sugar-Free – Stick with pure maple syrup and dark chocolate for a naturally sweet treat!

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.
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Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

These healthy magic bars are a better-for-you twist on the classic 7-layer bars! Made with a buttery almond flour crust, a naturally sweetened caramel layer, crunchy nuts, coconut, and melty dark chocolate, these bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free. They’re the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet but still healthier.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1/2 cup coconut cream (the thick white part at the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • Remove the crust from the oven to cool, and while it cools make the caramel by adding the coconut cream, maple syrup, and almond butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together and cool for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the caramel has melted together and slightly thickened.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly, then mix the chopped walnuts or pecans and shredded coconut into the caramel.
  • Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer (if you’d like, you can then sprinkle an additional 1-2 tablespoons of shredded coconut and chopped walnuts or pecans over the chocolate chips to make the bars a little prettier), then bake the bars for an additional 20 minutes.
  • Remove the bars from the oven and leave them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the fridge to completely set for at least one hour. Remove the bars from the fridge, cut into square, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 6.4g | Fat: 27g | Sugar: 13g
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30 Minutes or Less

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

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Homemade granola being scooped off a baking sheet with a measuring scoop.

This homemade granola recipe has been a staple in my home for over 3 years! In fact, it’s one of the first recipes I ever developed as a food blogger, along with my almond flour brownies and gluten-free blueberry muffins. I also can’t stress enough how incredibly EASY this recipe is to make. I was on TikTok last week and I watched a fellow food blogger make a homemade granola with like 12 ingredients and I was like… NO no, no need for that. So I finally carved out the time to share this 5-ingredient granola recipe with you!

I should also note that this is one of those recipes that is super easy to customize. Need to make it nut-free? Replace the chopped nuts with additional oats and unsalted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (also, check out the nut-free section on my blog for more nut-free recipes!). Craving something more chocolate-y? Toss in some dark chocolate chunks once the granola has cooled. Or, if you need a sugar-free granola recipe, replace the maple syrup with your favorite sugar-free liquid sweetener – it’s that simple!

Happy homemade granola making, friends! And if you give this recipe a try, I’d really love it if you left a comment and a 5 STAR review on this post. Your support means the world to me!

Homemade granola on a baking sheet with a serving spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make this Homemade Granola Recipe

Peanut Butter: For a personalized touch, opt for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice. To keep it health-conscious, go for a natural, unsweetened variety.

Melted Coconut Oil: Customize your granola with melted butter, olive oil, or any vegetable oil as alternatives to coconut oil.

Maple Syrup or Honey: Tailor the sweetness to your liking by choosing between agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or a sugar-free syrup for a low-sugar twist. The decision between maple syrup and honey is entirely based on your flavor preference.

Rolled Oats: For a gluten-free recipe, ensure the oats you buy are entirely gluten-free, like these ones from Bob’s Red Mill! Opt for old-fashioned oats to achieve a hearty and satisfying texture in your granola.

Chopped Unsalted Nuts: Make your granola uniquely yours by selecting nuts that align with your taste or dietary preferences. I used almonds and cashews in my granola, but really any unsalted nuts will do! For a nut-free alternative, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Homemade granola served with yogurt and fresh raspberries in a bowl.

Is this Homemade Granola Recipe Healthy?

Yes, this homemade granola recipe is relatively healthy. It incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like oats, nuts, and coconut oil, providing a good balance of essential fats, fiber, and protein. Additionally, the recipe allows for customization, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences and ensuring a wholesome breakfast or snack!

Homemade granola pouring out of a glass jar.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Mix It Up: Experiment with different nut and seed combinations to tailor the granola to your taste buds.
  • Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the granola during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
  • More Clusters: For delightfully big granola chunks, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

Elevate your breakfast with this super easy homemade granola recipe! It comes together with just 5-ingredients, one bowl, and in under 30 minutes. This healthy granola recipe is sweetened with maple syrup, and a delicious addition to yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, and/or cashews)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup or honey.
  • Add in the rolled oats and chopped nuts, then mix to combine.
  • Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet and spread the granola into an even layer across the baking sheet.
  • Bake the granola for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and use a spatula to flip and toss the granola. Put it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the granola in the turned-off oven for 30 minutes.
  • Remove granola from the oven and let it cool completely before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 4g
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30 Minutes or Less

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

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overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.

If you have bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder at home then you can make the most delicious 3 ingredient brownies! Something about me is I’m constantly stocking up on bananas. Not only because my toddler LOVES them, but they’re the star ingredient of so many of my healthy recipes. I use them most mornings in my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, then I always save some to make my 4 ingredient banana bread, and any leftovers get frozen for healthy protein smoothies!

Bananas are also the perfect base to this 3 ingredient brownies recipe. They provide structure and a natural sweetness to this gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and totally sugar-free recipe! The only other ingredients you’ll need are peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Then, grab just one bowl and you’ll be on your way to making the most rich and fudgy brownies that are light and healthy, but still taste indulgent!

the side of a 3 ingredient brownie resting on top of another brownie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Requires only three pantry staples.
  • Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have brownies ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and contains no added sugars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
  • Nut Butter Choices: Peanut butter adds a robust flavor, while almond or cashew butter offers milder alternatives. And for a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead!
  • Optional Add-Ins: For extra sweetness, mix in maple syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
3 ingredient brownies on a table stacked on top of each other.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
5 from 5 votes

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies made with just three simple ingredients: bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert that's gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and sugar-free. Plus, it all comes together in just one bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Optional add-ins:

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, and maple syrup (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownie are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 140kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars (gluten-free & vegan!)

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healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.

Healthier sweet treats are kinda my thing. I recently set out to recreate as many of my favorite classic candy recipes to make them healthier, gluten-free, and dairy-free. My 4-ingredient healthy snickers have been a huge hit, and so have my 4-ingredient date caramels. I even made a healthy homemade butterfingers recipe for halloween last year and OMG they were gone in three days! These healthy twix bars were the obvious next choice because, well – who doesn’t love a twix?! This healthy twix bars recipe absolutely nail the classic flavors and textures we’re all addicted to when it comes to the traditional candy bar. A buttery shortbread crust, smooth and perfectly sweet caramel, and crispy chocolate shell make the perfect quick and easy sweet candy-inspired treat!

overhead image of healthy twix bars on parchment paper with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with wholesome ingredients – No refined sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free – Perfect for various dietary needs.
  • Easy to make – Just a few simple steps, no complicated techniques required.
  • Rich, chewy, and delicious – Just like the classic Twix bars but with a healthier twist!

What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Healthy Twix Bars

  • Almond Flour – Creates a light, buttery shortbread base while keeping the recipe gluten-free. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Coconut Oil – Used in all three layers for moisture, structure, and a silky texture.
  • Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the bars while adding a subtle caramel-like flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavors of both the shortbread and caramel layers.
  • Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, creamy caramel-like texture without any refined sugar. Swap with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips – The perfect finishing touch for that classic Twix-like chocolate layer. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste!
close up image of healthy twix bars with flaky salt on top.

How to Make Healthy Twix Bars

  1. Prepare the Shortbread: Mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Press into a lined 9×9-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let cool.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer: Heat peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a saucepan until smooth and bubbly. Pour over the shortbread layer and refrigerate until set.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then spread over the caramel layer. Refrigerate again until firm.
  4. Slice & Enjoy! Remove from the fridge, cut into bars, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use regular flour? – No, almond flour is key to the texture and gluten-free nature of this recipe.
  • Can I make these nut-free? – Yes! Swap almond flour for oat flour and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • What makes these “healthy”? – These bars use natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and no processed ingredients.
  • How do I store them? – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months!
healthy twix bar with a bite taken out.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For a crispier shortbread layer, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
  • Want a thicker caramel layer? Add an extra ¼ cup of peanut butter!
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.
5 from 5 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars

These homemade Healthy Twix Bars are made with just six simple ingredients, featuring a buttery almond flour shortbread, creamy peanut butter caramel, and a rich dark chocolate topping. They’re gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened, making them a better-for-you sweet treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust. Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the peanut butter to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer. Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the twix bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size” bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 11g
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30 Minutes or Less

5-Ingredient Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

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a stack of 5 ingredient healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

  • Easy & Quick – No fancy ingredients or equipment needed!
  • Naturally Sweetened – Maple syrup adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Made with wholesome, allergy-friendly ingredients.
  • Customizable – Swap the chocolate chips for raisins, nuts, or coconut flakes!

What You’ll Need to Make Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Rolled Oats – The base of these cookies, providing fiber and a chewy texture.

Oat Flour – Helps bind the cookies together while keeping them light. You can easily make your own by blending rolled oats into a fine flour in either a high-speed blender or a food processor.

Baking Powder – Adds just the right amount of lift, making these cookies soft and fluffy.

Coconut Oil – A healthier fat alternative that keeps the cookies moist and tender.

Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that adds a rich caramel-like flavor without refined sugar.

Egg – Helps bind everything together for the perfect cookie texture.

Chocolate Chips (Optional, but Recommended!) – Dark chocolate chips add a delicious, melty bite to these cookies. I use and love Hu Kitchen refined sugar-free chocolate chips in many of my baking recipes!

5 ingredient healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies on a baking sheet.

How to Make Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients (oats, oat flour, and baking powder) in a large bowl.
  3. Stir in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and egg until a dough forms.
  4. Fold in the chocolate chips, then scoop out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
  6. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Mix-In Options

  • Swap chocolate chips for raisins or dried cranberries.
  • Add chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds).
  • Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
  • Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Make Your Own Oat Flour – Simply blend rolled oats in a food processor until fine.
  • Use a Cookie Scoop – For evenly sized cookies that bake perfectly every time.
  • Let Them Cool – They’ll firm up as they cool, so be patient before digging in!

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezee: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

a stack of 5 ingredient healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

These healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are soft, chewy, and made with just 5 simple ingredients! They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them the perfect guilt-free treat. Plus, they come together in under 20 minutes – no mixer required!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup oat flour rolled oats ground into a flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • 1 egg at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix together the rolled oats, oat flour, and baking powder in a large bowl.
  • Add in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and egg then mix together until fully combined.
  • Mix the chocolate chips into the cookie dough (if using), then scoop the cookies out onto your prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the outside edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before storing or serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 102kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Sugar: 6g
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