Granola Bar

I'm on a roll!

Maybe it's the energy, maybe it's the hunger, but I'm on a roll with fixing up treats! Here is another one that's good for ya. I gave these away for Easter (knowing I wouldn't score points with the kiddos because they aren't Cadbury Eggs!), but they are good, nay, GREAT!

Homemade Granola Bars
adapted from here

2 cups old-fashioned oats

1/2 c. flax seed, milled

1/4 c. quinoa

3/4 c. shelled sunflower seeds

1 c. chopped nuts (any kind or combination)

1 c. shredded coconut

1/2 to 1 tsp. cinnamon (desired amount)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 c. brown sugar or organic agave nectar

1/2 c. honey

2 tsp. molasses

4 T. butter (I used coconut oil)

2 tsp. vanilla

4 T. peanut butter
(optional, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, add in step 3. That's why mine are darker than the original)

1. mix first 8 ingredients together and place on a rimmed baking sheet. toast in a 400 degree oven for 12 minutes. stir and let cool at least 15 minutes.
2. bring next 4 ingredients to a simmer, stirring continuously. stir in the vanilla and peanut butter and cool for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. put the toasted ingredients in a large bowl and pour the liquid ingredients over it. mix very well.
4. place parchment or wax paper in the rimmed baking sheet and butter the top side, then place the granola bar mixture in the pan. put another butter sheet of paper, buttered side down, on top of the mixture and press down. roll with a rolling pin to make it very tight, smooth, and even.
5. let set for 2-3 hours and cut into desired bar size. makes about 20-24 bars. package in snack size bags or an airtight container. if not using within next few days, store in freezer or fridge. they keep very well, and thaw quickly. (really yummy frozen, too!)