Homemade granola bars

Granola Breakfast Bars

3 1/2 cups oats (quick or regular), toasted

1 cup nuts

1 cup raisins

2/3 cup butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup packed bown sugar

1/3 cup honey, corn syrup or molasses

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Toast oats by spreading on a cookie sheet or large baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 mimutes until lightly browned. This gives the oats a nutty flavor and helps the mixture stick together better. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl with a wooden spoon. Press into well-greased 15x10 inch jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Cool and cut into bars when cool.

Variations: Substitute chocolate chips for raisins. Add 1/2 cup coconut. Substitute 1/2 cup sunflower seeds for the nuts.

** I left out the raisins, used sliced almonds for the nuts, then melted some chocolate chips and drizzled over the top. I think I'll try putting mini M&M's in them sometime... think the kids would like that. Very tasty, and MUCH cheaper than store bought! :)