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As the back-to-school season approaches, parents often seek ways to ensure their children are equipped with healthy snacks that can keep their energy levels up throughout the day. The right snack not only provides the necessary nutrients but also helps maintain focus and concentration during classes. With busy schedules and the temptation of sugary snacks, finding a quick and nutritious solution can be challenging. That’s where our Colorful Crunchy Back-to-School Snack Bars come into play. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making snack time something to look forward to.

Weekend Back To School Treats

Get ready for back-to-school season with these Colorful Crunchy Snack Bars, a nutritious treat that kids will love! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nut butter, and dried fruits, these bars provide lasting energy and essential nutrients. Easy to make and customizable, they’re perfect for busy schedules. Whether enjoyed as a snack or in lunchboxes, these bars make healthy eating fun and exciting for your little ones. Try them today!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup crispy rice cereal

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (your choice)

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter for a nut-free option)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)

1/2 cup nuts (chopped walnuts or almonds)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of sea salt

Optional: 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles for decoration

Instructions
 

Prepare the Baking Pan: Begin by lining an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring you leave an overhang on two sides for hassle-free removal later. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, cocoa powder, mini chocolate chips, chopped dried fruit, and nuts. Add a pinch of sea salt, then use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of all components.

      Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter. Stir gently until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Once combined, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

        Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Pour the warm, melted peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir side to side until every dry ingredient is coated and the mixture begins to cling together. If you're using sprinkles, fold them in at this stage for an extra touch of color!

          Set the Mixture in the Pan: Transfer the sticky mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your lightly greased hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a compact layer, ensuring there are no air pockets.

            Chill to Set: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are set and firm to the touch.

              Cut and Store: Once the mixture is chilled and firm, use the parchment overhang to lift it out of the pan. Transfer it to a cutting board and slice it into squares or bars of your preferred size. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

                Serve and Enjoy: These vibrant, crunchy snack bars are ideal for school lunches, satisfying after-school snacks, or a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy the deliciousness!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | Makes 16 bars