Fruit and Nut Granola Bars

I know I'm kind of on a bar snack kick here on Market to Meal. But I have just been finding so many fun ones! I have been on a hunt for good granola bars for a long time. I'm kind of picky in that I want one that's nice and chewy. And I want it adaptable to what I have on hand. I think I have found THE recipe though via this website. Its pretty much a base idea that you can then adapt and create based on what flavor you want or what you have on hand. Change up the fat or the add ins. Choose your own adventure, if you will. I hope you'll enjoy it like we have! This fruit and nut variation is one I've put together and have liked a lot. Here is a recipe for an Almond, Coconut, and Chocolate Chip variation as well! Our favorite!

Fruit and Nut Granola Bars
1 2/3 cups quick cooking or rolled oats
1/3 cup honey
3-4 Tbs brown sugar, lightly filled
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 c olive oil, melted butter, or coconut oil
1/3 cup each almonds
1/3 cup cashews
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup raisins
1/4 cup peanuts

Mix everything together and press into a parchment lined pan. I have found that 7x11 works okay or one slightly larger that allows you to get them slightly thinner. But a 9x13 is too big. Bake at 325F (160C) for about 25 minutes. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. 

Notes: I've also done this with 1/4 cup dried cherries instead of the peanuts. Really its just kind of up to you! You're just going for about 1 1/2 cups of nuts, fruit, or even chocolate chips. I usually grind my own wheat flour. Sometimes in this I put part wheat flour and part wheat germ. It works fine, too. I think I've also used oat flour from the oat groats available locally (燕麦). I have found I like these granola bars best with coconut oil--but that's just me. It doesn't make them too coconut-y if you don't like that kind of thing.