Whole Grain Cereal Bars

WHOLE GRAIN. The first listed ingredient on a box of good ole' Cheerios. This means it's the MAIN ingredient. This is important to note because 95% of Americans do not get enough whole grains in their diet.

Whole grains provide important nutrients in our diets like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Research shows that eating more whole grains may reduce the risk of developing some chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. These healthy grains can also reduce chronic inflammation which is a key factor in various chronic diseases.

The fiber in whole grains also supports digestive health. Fiber helps waste move along in the digestive tract, and it also acts as a prebiotic, which will help to feed your beneficial gut bacteria.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 cups Cheerios

• 1/2 cup old fashioned oats

• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

• 1 Tablespoon hemp seeds

• 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds

• 1/2 cup natural creamy almond butter

• 1/4 cup local honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Line a square baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Place Cheerios, oats, coconut flakes, dried cranberries, pepitas, sunflower seeds, hemp and chia seeds in a large bowl. Toss to combine.

3. In a small saucepan, heat almond butter and honey over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is completely smooth. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and sea salt.

4. Pour over the cereal mixture and gently toss to coat everything.

5. Pour into lined pan and press mixture down firmly with a spatula or your hands. Place squares in the freezer for about 30 minutes to set up. Remove from freezer, cut into squares and serve. Store leftover squares in the fridge.