Homeade Granola Bars

The perfect things for after school snacks!

Here, you see whole almonds, dried cranberries and mini chocolate chips. We’ve also used dried cherries, apricots and unsweetened coconut. We’re even thinking about adding pistachios next time.

The possibilities are endless — all you need to know is the base. Oats, butter, honey and brown sugar. After that, add what you like. Nut Butter or organic peanut butter - pick your favorite.

2 ½ cups - old fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup - whole almonds, coarsely chopped (optional)

1/3 cup - honey

1/4 cup - butter, cut into pieces

1/4 cup - brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon - vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon - sea salt

1/2 cup - dried cranberries, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup - chocolate chips

Directions

• TOAST OATS AND NUTS

• Set oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line the bottom and sides of a 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

• Add the oats and chopped almonds to a small baking sheet, and then bake for 5 minutes, stir and then bake another 3 to 5 minutes or until lightly toasted. Transfer to a large bowl.

• Assembly

• Combine the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract and the salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally until butter melts, the mixture is bubbling and the sugar dissolves.

• Pour the butter mixture into the bowl with toasted oats and almonds. Mix. Let cool about 5 minutes, and then add the cranberries and chocolate chips.

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