From Scratch Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ cup crispy rice cereal (optional)

• ½ cup mini chocolate chips

• ¼ cup ground flaxseed (optional)

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup natural peanut butter

• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup

• ¼ cup coconut oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Line an 8 × 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.

2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, crispy rice cereal (if using), chocolate chips, flaxseed, cinnamon and salt.

3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey and coconut oil. Stir until smooth and melted. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

5. Transfer to the prepared pan and press down very firmly and evenly.

6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until set.

7. Lift out using the parchment and cut into 8–10 bars.

8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week