Chewy Granola Bars

Years ago, before we were married, my husband and I made a trip to visit with his great aunt and uncle. His aunt is a fabulous cook and, like me, enjoys trying out new recipes. At their house, they have a term for a recipe that did not live up to expectation: One Timer. We thought that was such a kind way of saying, “That was terrible, don’t make that again!”

Now that we have a family of our own, we also rate our food. There are five of us and we each have one vote for or against a recipe. A dinner recipe might get a 3 out of 5 rating. A breakfast recipe might get a 4 out of 5 rating. This Chewy Granola Bars recipe receives 5 out of 5 votes from our family. They are inexpensive, simple, and healthier than store bought.

Chewy Granola Bars

4 ½ cups oats
1 cup flour (white, wheat or almond meal)
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup butter, melted
½ cup honey
1/3 cup brown sugar (or raw sugar)
1 cup mini chocolate chips (or raisins, nuts, etc.)

Preheat oven to 325˚. Lightly grease 9X13 pan. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, vanilla, butter, honey, and brown sugar. Stir in chocolate chips. Press mixture into pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes, and then cut into bars. Cool completely before removing from pan.

Frugal Tip: Make these Chewy Granola Bars up at the beginning of the week and serve them for snacks or put them in everyone’s lunch boxes. They travel well and stay fresh for several days.