Chewy bars with oats, nuts, and dried fruit provide a nutritious, convenient snack option.
# What you'll need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup crisp rice cereal
03 - 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
04 - 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots)
05 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter or almond butter
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Optional Add-Ins
10 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
11 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed meal
# Method:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, rice cereal, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute all components evenly.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and peanut butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the warm honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all components are evenly coated and well incorporated.
05 - If using chocolate chips, allow the mixture to cool for 2-3 minutes before stirring them in to prevent melting.
06 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or the back of a measuring cup, press firmly and evenly to create a compact, uniform layer.
07 - Sprinkle additional chocolate chips or nuts on top as desired, pressing them gently into the surface for adhesion.
08 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture has set completely and holds its shape.
09 - Lift the entire bar from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 uniform bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
