Healthy Trail Mix Bars (Printer-Friendly Version)

Nutritious bars with oats, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate topping. Perfect for snacking anytime.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups gluten-free old-fashioned oats
02 - 1 1/4 cups trail mix (raw almonds, cashews, sunflower kernels, dried blueberries, dried cranberries)
03 - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 3/4 cup almond butter
05 - 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large bowl, mix oats, trail mix, and half of the dark chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping.
02 - Microwave almond butter and maple syrup or honey together in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth and combined, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
03 - Pour the melted almond butter mixture into the oat and nut blend; stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
04 - Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick spray. Evenly press the mixture into the pan, compacting firmly.
05 - Refrigerate the pan for 2 hours or until firm.
06 - Melt remaining dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe container until smooth, then pour over chilled bars and spread evenly.
07 - Return to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate topping is set.
08 - Remove from pan using parchment paper, cut into 16 bars, and enjoy.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Store bars refrigerated for up to two weeks for best freshness.
02 - Customize bars by swapping trail mix to include preferred nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
03 - Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or spices such as cinnamon to enhance flavor.