Chocolate Chip Granola Bar Recipe

1. Prepare the Baking Pan:

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and seeds. Mix well.

3. Heat the Wet Ingredients:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, unsalted butter, and peanut butter (or almond butter).
Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble. Once it starts to bubble, let it cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

4. Combine the Mixtures:

Pour the warm honey mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Press into the Pan:

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Press extra mini chocolate chips onto the top for decoration.

6. Chill the Bars:

7. Cut and Serve:

Once the bars are set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles.

Dried Fruit: Add 1/4 cup of dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for extra sweetness and texture.
Coconut: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the bars before chilling for an extra chocolatey treat.
Nut-Free: Replace the nuts with additional seeds and use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Storage: Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for up to three months.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate chip granola bars as a delightful, wholesome snack that’s perfect for any time of day!