Granola bars

I was very weak yesterday but did manage to summon the strength to try out a granola bar recipe I found at: http://www.joyfulabode.com/blog
I had to modify it a bit as I didn't have all the ingredients. It turned out very well. I'm including photos and the recipe. Enjoy :-)

Heat oven to 400 degrees F.

3.5 cups oats
1 cup coconut flakes
3/4 cup nuts (I used almonds and walnuts)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
3 tbsp butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup dried fruit (I used a combo of raisins and cranberries)

Combine oats and nuts in baking dish and toast in oven for about 12-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Turn off oven and remove oats and nuts, set aside to cool.


In small saucepan combine sugar, honey, butter and vanilla. Heat until simmering, stirring constantly.


Remove from heat and set aside while you combine oats and nuts with coconut and fruit.


Pour sugar mixture over dry ingredients and mix very well until everything is coated.


Spread mixture into foil-coated 11x13 inch pan with a spoon or spatula.


Place another layer of foil on top of mixture and press down HARD. This will ensure the bars will not fall apart once cooled.


Allow mixture to cool for 2-3 hours, then remove top layer of foil and lay out on a cutting board. Using a large knife, press down to cut into bars. ( Do not 'saw' as this will cause them to break apart)
When bars are cut, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap to keep fresh, or place in a large container with layers of foil or wax paper between them so they do not stick together.