Maple Pecan Granola Bars Energizing and Tasty Snack

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 2/3 cup almond butter
• 1 2/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 4 honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 4 teaspoon salt
• 1 2/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1 4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped pecans. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, honey (or agave syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and pour the nut butter mixture over the oat and pecan mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything together until the oats are fully coated.
5. Add the dried cranberries (or raisins) and chocolate chips (if using) to the mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
6. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Use a piece of parchment paper to help press it down without it sticking to your hands.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. Then, lift the granola bars out using the parchment paper overhang and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Once cooled, cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife.