I have tried many recipes for homemade granola bars. Most of them are either too dry or too sweet. After trying several I combined things that I liked from many of them and came up with what we like. Finally! I love making homemade granola bars for my family. Much healthier and cheaper too.
I like being able to customize my granola bars for my family. In just one recipe, I can make half with chocolate chips, and half without. Or throw in some mini m&m’s. Or some dried cranberries. Whatever floats my boat at the moment.
1/2 c. honey
1/4 c. brown sugar
1/4-1/2 c. coconut (optional)
1/2 c. peanut butter
1/4 c. ground flax seed
2 c. quick oats
2 c. Rice Krispies
3 Tbl. wheat germ
1 c. mix-in (like mini m&m’s, dried fruit, etc)
In a large bowl, mix oats, Rice Krispies, flax seed, wheat germ, and coconut. Set aside. Mix honey and brown sugar in a small sauce pan over medium heat until dissolved. Remove from heat. Stir the peanut butter into the hot mixture. Once it is smooth and creamy, pour peanut butter mixture over dry ingredients and mix well.
Stir in your mix-ins, if any.
Press tightly into a 9×13 pan. I like to line my pan with tin foil. Makes clean up easy! Cool and let set up (like you would Rice Krispie treats). Then cut and enjoy!
I will cut them all and wrap them in plastic wrap so they are ready for school lunches or snacks. It is nice being able to quickly grab them out of the cupboard.