Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

I must admit that these granola bars do not last long around my house. As soon as they are cool enough to eat my kids are all over them. In fact, I made a batch yesterday and these granola bars are about gone...My goal is to have snacks for my kids that are healthy for them so this recipe is a win win. I get to know exactly what is in them and the kids LOVE LOVE LOVE them. So here goes....

Chocolate Chip Granola bars

Ingredients....
4 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats, uncooked
1 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon butter, softened
1/2 cup honey ( i must confess I add a little more honey to prevent crumbly bars)
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
2 cups mini chocolate chips
**you can add as much or as little of the chocolate chips**
**you can also add dried fruit or nuts or mini marshmallows or peanut butter***
***you can add whatever your heart desires...my kids just like chocolate chips***

Let's get started...

In a large bowl ( I use my KitchenAid stand mixer) combine the quick cooking oats and flour.

Now add the baking soda, vanilla extract, butter, honey and brown sugar. Mix well...it will be sticky and look like this...

Now add the chocolate chips (or whatever you decide to add) and mix well...

Now dump the mixture into a greased 13 X 9 baking pan and press mixture down. Again, it may be sticky. I have found if you dampen your hand with COLD water it is easier to press down into the pan without it sticking to your hands. Bake at 325 until golden brown between 20-22 minutes. They will look like this...

Let cool then cut into the shape and size that you desire. And ENJOY!

Well, I am off....yet another thunder storm is approaching...:(

Until next time....may your heart be merry and your day be blessed! :)