This recipe combines wholesome and versatile ingredients to create an energizing and delicious snack. You’ll have a hard time returning to pre-packaged bars once you’ve tried our homemade ones!

STEP ONE – Preparations

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Lightly spray a large baking sheet with canola spray.
3. Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
4. Get out a medium pot and a large bowl.

STEP TWO – Toast the Oats

Ingredients:

2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
¼ cup sliced almonds (or similar)

Instructions:

1. Spread the oats and almonds onto the baking sheet.
2. Bake for 8 minutes.
3. Set aside to cool.

STEP THREE – Make the Binder

Ingredients:

¼ cup honey
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons creamy nut butter (almond or peanut)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions:

1. In the medium pot, add the honey, brown sugar, butter, nut butter, vanilla, and salt over medium heat.
2. Cook until smooth and creamy, stirring frequently.
3. Let cool for 20 minutes.

STEP FOUR – Assemble the Bars

Ingredients:

¼ cup chopped dried cranberries (or similar)
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup pepitas (or similar)

Instructions:

1. In the large bowl, combine the cooled oats and almonds with the cooled binder.
2. Add the cranberries, chocolate chips, and pepitas and incorporate by hand.
3. Very firmly press the granola into the baking pan.
4. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
5. Remove from the pan and cut into 12 bars.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 bar

Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat