By Shannon Deady
Columnist
The second week of class is upon us, and that means it is time to kick into high gear and hit the books. Long hours at the library can result in unhealthy snacking decisions or, even worse, forgetting to eat altogether.
Having healthy snacking options on hand is essential, and who doesn’t love a traditional chocolate chip granola bar? This homemade version of the packaged treat will save you a laundry list of unhealthy added sugars and preservatives that are found in many store-bought brands. With just six ingredients, this recipe is simple to make and will leave you with enough brain food to last a week of tireless library sessions. Add extra nuts and dried fruits or omit the chocolate chips to adjust the recipe to your liking. Also, be sure to choose a natural nut butter, which has healthy fats and no added sugars, to bind your bar together.
Makes: 10 bars
Ingredients:
2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal
¼ cup honey
½ cup natural chunky peanut butter
¼ cup sunflower seeds
¼ cup almonds
¼ cup chocolate chips
Directions:
1. Combine peanut butter and honey in a large mixing bowl and microwave until sufficiently melted. Once melted, mix until combined.
2. Quickly add uncooked oats, sunflower seeds and almonds and mix until dry ingredients are evenly distributed and sticking together.
3. Form into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for smaller, snackable portions. For traditional bars, spread evenly into a rectangular cake pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
4. Place in refrigerator overnight to harden and cut your granola into traditional bars in the morning.
5. Enjoy!
