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Why settle for store-bought granola or trail-mix bars pumped full of preservatives-not to mention wastefully individually packaged-when you can whip up a batch of your own, licketty-split?
Missy Chase Lapine, author of The Sneaky Chef: Simple Strategies for Hiding Healthy Foods in Kids' Favorite Meals (2007, Running Press), has a recipe for crispy granola bars-packed with dried fruit, chocolate chips, and almonds-for noshing on when you're away from your stove and on the go.
If you're truly pressed for time, we recommend one of Matisse & Jack's delicious organic bake-at-home snack mixes.
Difficulty level: EasySneaky Chef Grab -n Go Crispy Granola Bars:
Makes about 18 bars
2/3 cup rolled oats, ground in a food processor to about ½ cup
1/2 cup blanched, slivered almonds, ground in a food processor to about 1/3 cup (omit if allergic, and add another 1/3 cup of ground oats instead)
1/4 cup wheat germ
1 cup crispy brown rice cereal (or Rice Krispies)
1 cup nonfat dry milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup canola oil
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Optional extra boost: 1/4 cup raisins or dried blueberries
Sneaky tip: Measure the oil first, then the honey. This way the honey won't stick and will slide right out of the measuring cup.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9-inch square or 9-by-13 inch baking pan completely with foil and butter the foil (or spray with oil).
In a medium bowl, combine oats, almonds (if using), wheat germ, cereal, dry milk, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in the canola oil, honey, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips (and/or dried fruit, optional). Mix well, then pour into the prepared baking pan. Press down with palm of hand, evenly distributing the mixture into the corners of the dish and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Check occasionally to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and using the foil to help you, lift the giant bar out of pan. Place on a flat surface and while still warm, cut into small bars.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze in plastic bags.
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