The holiday season is usually a time when we tend to over-indulge in our favorite cookies and candies as part of the Christmas fare. Since it's about time to begin making all those sweets to fill cookie jars, candy dishes or perhaps give as homemade gifts, you might like to try this healthier tasty treat.
There is always a shortage of time during December, with so many things to do and activities to attend. This recipe can be made with little effort and baking time is only 20 minutes. The bars great with a big glass of milk, or you can even put a couple of these bars in a storage bag and eat them on the run. They contain no sugar, but kids will love the sweet taste of honey, peanut butter and coconut. Nothing like coming inside to a warm, cozy home after being outside shoveling snow, and sit down to a plate of these chewy treats and a hot mug of cocoa or coffee!
CHEWY HONEY-OATMEAL BARS
1/3 cup butter OR margarine
1/2 cup honey
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal
1/2 cup flaked coconut
1/4 cup peanuts
Heat first five ingredients in a saucepan, stirring to blend. In an 8-inch-by-8-inch square baking pan, combine oats, rice cereal, coconut, and peanuts. Pour honey mixture over dry ingredients. Mix until thoroughly coated. Pack mixture firmly into the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Cool and cut into 16 bars.
