Chewy bars combining oats, honey, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a wholesome snack option.
# Components:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
03 - 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
04 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
05 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, optional
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/3 cup honey
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
08 - 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
09 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips if using.
03 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with honey and brown sugar, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
04 - Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all components are evenly coated with the honey-butter blend.
05 - Transfer mixture to prepared baking pan and press firmly using a spatula or hands to create an even, compact layer.
06 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until edges are golden brown.
07 - Allow bars to cool completely in pan, then lift out using parchment overhang. Cut into 12 equal bars.
