Granola Bars

Yep, I made Homemade Granola Bars. Guess the whole nesting thing finally kicked in. These taste really similar to the Energy Balls I make... But I also did one version that had this nut/dried fruit mix in them. I like those better. 

Anyways. Here's the recipe. It was the first time I ever used Coconut Oil... it's a solid so measuring it out was a little weird but it's supposed to be a good substitute for oil/butter. Oh, and I would probably cut back on the honey... you don't need a full half cup. 

Enjoy! 

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter, almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or your favorite nut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, optional

Directions

1. In a medium pot set over medium-low heat, melt together nut butter, honey, and coconut oil, stirring until smooth. Remove from stove and stir in oats and coconut. Pour mixture into a 9- by 13-inch baking dish. Spread into an even layer, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips (if using), and firmly press down with the back of a spatula or clean hands. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm. Slice into squares or bars (I like to cut 3 rows of 4 bars each) and remove from pan. Store granola bars in the refrigerator, either in an airtight container with wax paper separating the layers, or individually wrapped in plastic wrap.

Tips, Tricks, & Variations

You may substitute chopped nuts, seeds, and/or dried fruit for the coconut, or add them additionally. For a chocolate flavored granola bar, you may stir chocolate chips into the oat mixture, where they will partially or completely melt.