Granola Bars

These Granola Bars have become a staple at our house.  My friends children refer to them as "Jenny Bars" and are just as happy eating these as they are eating a cookie.  Granted, while these bars have some healthy ingredients, they are still a treat due the sugar and chocolate.  Enjoy... but in moderation!
Chewy Granola Bars
Adapted from KAF

 

Ingredients

• 1 2/3 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup oat bran
• 1/4 cup wheat germ
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup almond butter
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate pieces
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 2 tablespoon water

Directions

1. Line a 9x13 backing dish with parchment or aluminum foil. Spray well, these guys are sticky! Preheat oven to 350.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine dry ingredients and mix to incorporate. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, agave, water and vanilla. Add liquid mixture to dry mixture and mix well.
3. Press mixture into pan, leveling with your hands. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy.
4. Carefully remove from pan, while keeping on the paper/foil. Let cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars and store wrapped tightly.