I've been feeling very deprived lately (having a kitchen remodeled can do that) so I went to Kroger and bought from the health food section (from the bulk bin) bite size, chewy granola type bites for nearly $16 a pound. I thought that was a ridiculous price for so little, so I came home and started checking what I had in the pantry.
Since I can never find anything that isn't loaded with gluten, soy, dairy, or some unpronounceable chemical I decided to make my own. Well, ladies and gentlemen, my concoction is a winner (if I may say so :-)
Here we go--this is all GF and organic, you substitute based on your intolerances.
2 cups quick oats
2 cups rice crispies
1 cup cranberries (or raisins)
1 cup coconut
1/2 cup honey (corn syrup or your favorite sweetener)
1/2 almond butter (or peanut butter)
1/2 almond milk
1/2 chopped almonds or cashews (optional) or you can add chocolate chips if you can handle chocolate.
Put the honey, almond butter, milk in the micro for a minute or so. Mix it well.
In a large bowl mix all the dry ingredients well. Add the wet ingredients. The binding agent here is the honey, almond butter and milk.
Make sure that it is nicely moist and well mixed. Spray a cookie sheet (9x11) with Pam. Pour the mixture and using your hands, press firmly and evenly. Keep in the fridge covered with a towel or whatever.
What you'll get is a chewy and moist granola bar. It is so good that the only danger is eating too much of it! Drink it with a cup of hot almond milk before you go to bed. You'll sleep well.
Love to all,
Monique
