Morning Bars

For a yummy, on-the-go breakfast, try my “Morning Bars.” Sweetened almost entirely with dried fruit, it’s perfect for kids on their way to school and parents getting started on their day. These bars make you feel good while still tasting good!

2 cups mixed nuts (I use almonds, walnuts, and pistachios) 

1 1⁄2 cups puffed rice

1 cup dried fruit, chopped if the pieces are large (I use dried figs, mulberries, and apricots)

1⁄2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

3 to 4 tablespoons seeds (sunflower seeds, chia seeds, etc.) 

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1⁄2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1⁄2 cup brown rice syrup

1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter

2 tablespoons coconut sugar (optional)

2 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F.

Step 2: Line and grease an 8x8-inch square pan. For easy removal, extend the parchment paper above the top edge of the pan on at least two sides.

Step 3: Mix together the nuts, puffed rice, dried fruit, seeds, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the brown rice syrup, nut butter, and vanilla. It might help to gently heat the syrup and nut butter.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients.

Step 6: Press the mixture into the prepared pan. (Oil your fingers to keep the mixture from sticking.)

Step 7: Bake for 15 minutes and then allow to cool in the pan for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Lift parchment paper out of the pan and onto a cooling rack for an additional 30 minutes. Once completely cool, cut into 10 bars.