Granola Bars

This recipe list a lot of ingredients; however you don’t have to use as many ingredients as did and it will still be wonderful.  I had 5 people test this recipe and they all thought that it was delicious.  One person said that it was excellent. 

If you give it a try let me know what you think; and share your twist.


Ingredients:
·         2 1/2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal
·         1 cup sliced almonds
·         1 cup shredded coconut
·         1/4 cup wheat germ
·         1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
·         1/2 cup dried cranberries
·         1/2 cup golden raisins
·         1/4 cup pre-ground golden flax seed
·         1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
·         1/2 cup sunflower kernels, roasted
·         1/2 cup low sodium peanut butter
·         1/4 cup brown sugar
·         1/2 cup Agave (or honey)
·         3 1/2 tablespoons butter
·         1 teaspoon vanilla extra
·         1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line a pan or casserole dish with parchment paper.
3. Bake the oatmeal, almonds and coconut for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees F.
5. Transfer mixture to a large bowl and the rest of the ingredients except the last 6.
6. Place the last 6 ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
7. Stir occasionally and cook until well blended.
8. Pour the mixture over the oatmeal mixture and mix well with a large spoon.
9. Lightly butter a glass casserole dish and press mixture into the dish.
10. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly brown.
11. Cool thoroughly before cutting.        

Twist: Use of several dried fruits. P.S. bars will probably hold together better with honey; however, I prefer Agave Nectar.

(Granola Bars adapted from Ina Garten)