Summer is the season for sunshine, outdoor activities, and delicious snacks. When the temperatures rise, lighter and refreshing options tend to be more desirable.
That’s why I’d like to share with you this fantastic recipe for summery cereal bars with chocolate and fruits. These bars encompass all the qualities we crave during the hot months – they’re easy, tasty, light, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup of oats
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of almond butter
- 1/4 cup of chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup of dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine crispy rice cereal, oats, dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, pumpkin seeds, and unsweetened coconut flakes. Mix until well combined.
2. In a medium saucepan, add honey and almond butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to bubble. Stir occasionally.
3. Once the honey and almond butter mixture starts to bubble, remove from heat and pour it into the mixing bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix well with a spatula until all the ingredients are fully coated.
4. Add chocolate chips to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spoon the cereal mixture into the baking dish and smooth with the spatula. Press the mixture down with the spatula, making sure that it’s compact and tight.
6. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least an hour or until firm.
7. Once the cereal bars are firm, remove from the baking dish and cut into bars using a sharp knife.
Variations
Feel free to switch up the ingredients used in this recipe to cater to your taste preferences. Here are some creative ideas to consider:.
- Use peanut butter instead of almond butter
- Replace dried cranberries with raisins or other dried berries
- Use white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips
- Switch out the pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
Storage
Once you have cut the cereal bars, store them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
Conclusion
With only a few simple ingredients, this recipe for summery cereal bars with chocolate and fruits is a winner. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks and perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Make a batch to keep in the fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have something to munch on when hunger strikes. Try this recipe today and embrace the summertime vibes!.