Homemade Granola Bars

Moving day is finally here! It is hard to believe that we are leaving Charlottesville, headed for North Carolina, in a matter of a few hours. We got up extra early today to make sure that we get all of the last minute things taken care of before the movers arrive to load up the truck.

As I was cleaning out the pantry last night, I discovered that I had enough leftover ingredients to make a pretty tasty granola bar. I figured that they might come in handy today with the endless hours of moving and then the drive to North Carolina. These granola bars can be made with any other ingredients that you might like - dried apricots, peanuts, chocolate candy, dates etc. So the next time you are about to buy more granola bars at the grocery store; stop, and instead make some of your own!

Adapted from Ina Garten

You Will Need:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup pecan pieces
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate pieces

Here We Go:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F
• Butter an 8 x12-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper or spray with PAM
• Toss the oatmeal, almonds and pecans together on a sheet pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned
• Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl
• Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F
• Place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat
• Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture. Add the cherries, chocolate and cranberries and stir well
• Pour the mixture into the prepared pan
• Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan
• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until light golden brown
• Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares
• Serve at room temperature

Makes 12-15 Bars

Happy Feasting!