Chewy bars with oats, nuts, and dried fruit, ready without baking. Great for on-the-go snacking.
# 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, or pecans)
04 - 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
05 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, optional
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
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the edges 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 fully melted and smooth, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract, stirring well.
04 - Pour the warm liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until all dry components are thoroughly coated and no dry spots remain.
05 - If using chocolate chips, allow the mixture to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before folding 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 the mixture firmly and evenly to create a uniform layer.
07 - If desired, sprinkle additional chocolate chips or nuts over the top surface, pressing them gently into the mixture.
08 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the mixture is fully set and firm to the touch.
09 - Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire bar from the pan. Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 equal bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
