Chewy Granola Bar

• 1 C maple syrup or honey
• 2/3 C chunky natural peanut butter
• 2 2/3 C rolled oats
• 1 C whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 C wheat germ
• 2 C mix-ins in any combination of the following: sweetened flaked coconut, raisins, chocolate or carob chips, unsalted nuts, any finely chopped dried fruit such as dates, apricots, apples, etc.

Example:

• 1/2 C raisins or dried apple
• 1/4 C wheat bran
• 1/2 C walnuts (for omega-3's)
• 4 scoops soy protein powder (between 1/4 and 1/2 C)

(These would add up to the 2 C total)

1. Mix syrup (or honey) and peanut butter until well blended. Stir in oats, flour, wheat germ, spices, and mix-ins. If mixture seems too dry, add water 1 tsp at a time. If it is too sticky, add oats 1 tsp at a time. Mixture should be slightly sticky, but still easily spread in a pan with greased fingers.
2. Press into a 9x13 inch pan lightly greased. Bake at 350°F until barely browned (approx 12 minutes). Do not overbake! Cut while warm into desired sized bars.
3. When completely cool, remove from pan with a greased spatula. Wrap each bar separately in plastic wrap then store in a zip bag or air tight container.

Makes about 2 dozen bars.

1 serving contains: Carbs: 37 grams; Protein: 12 grams; Fat: 7 grams; Fiber: 5 grams