kick off your New Year with this recipe that is loaded with real and simple ingredients that combined are crunchy fabulous! servings: makes 12 to 16 generously-sized granola bars
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the oats, nuts, and almonds onto the prepared baking sheet. Toast for 7 minutes. Then add coconut and mix all together. Continue toasting until mixture is light golden brown color. Remove from oven and set aside.
Reduce the oven to 300°F.
While oat mixture is toasting, whisk the honey, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract and salt in a small saucepan on medium-high heat. Bring to a rapid boil, then remove from heat and set aside.
Combine the oat mixture, the honey mixture and any add-ins you wish so everything is moist.
Return mixture to parchment-lined baking sheet and spread into thin layer. Bake ~ 25 min. rotating pan half-way through to ensure even cooking. Looking for a toasted golden brown edges.
Remove from oven and transfer mixture and parchment to a 9x13 baking pan. Press into pan to compress and spread evenly. I use a smaller baking sheet or you could use the bottom of a measuring cup or drinking glass to compress the mixture. Let cool completely.
Break apart into clusters for snacking or crumble completely to use as a topping.
Store in airtight container or freeze and pull out as needed so it stays fresh longer.