Thread: Granola Bars

This recipe is from Ina Garten (aka "Barefoot Contessa" from the Food Network). They're really yummy and make for a satisfying snack or breakfast on-the-go!



Homemade Granola Bars ( adapted from Ina Garten)
Ingredients:
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup sliced almonds (I used whole almonds)
1 cup shredded coconut, loosely packed (I left this out because I couldn’t find this at the grocery store but I recommend adding it)
1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup honey
1/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup dried, chopped figs
1/2 cup dried, chopped prunes
1/2 cup golden raisins
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
Butter an 8×12 inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
Toss the oatmeal, almonds, and coconut (if using) together on a sheet pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ.
Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees.
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 dried fruits 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 lightly brown. Cool for at least 2-3 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature. Enjoy and share some with your lucky friends!