Wholesome snack of oats, nuts, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners ready in no time.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
02 - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
03 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
05 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
07 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - Pinch of salt
# Steps:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and optional chia seeds until well blended.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm peanut butter and honey or maple syrup until smooth and pourable; then stir in vanilla extract and salt.
04 - Pour the warmed wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and firmly press down with a spatula or clean hands to form an even, compact layer.
06 - Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour until the mixture is firm.
07 - Lift the chilled mixture using the parchment overhang and slice into 12 bars; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
