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As the back-to-school season approaches, parents often find themselves on the lookout for nutritious snack options that can keep their children energized and focused throughout the day. Healthy snacks play a crucial role in supporting growing kids by providing the necessary nutrients they need to thrive academically and physically. One solution that stands out is the creation of homemade snack bars that are not only nutritious but also visually appealing.

Weekend Back To School Treats

Get ready for back-to-school with these Colorful Crunchy Snack Bars! Perfect for keeping your kids energized and focused, these homemade bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nut butter, honey, and a mix of fun textures. Easy to make and visually appealing, they provide a nutritious snack option for lunch boxes or after school. Plus, you can customize them to suit any dietary needs. Make healthy snacking exciting for your little ones!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup crispy rice cereal

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)

1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, chopped)

1/2 cup nuts ( walnuts or almonds, chopped)

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of sea salt

Optional: 1/2 cup sprinkles for decoration

Instructions
 

Prepare the Baking Pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease it with cooking spray.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, cocoa powder, mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir them well to ensure an even distribution.

      Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter. Stir gently until melted and well combined. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.

        Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Pour the melted mixture over your dry ingredients and stir well. The mixture should be sticky and hold together. If desired, mix in sprinkles at this point.

          Set the Mixture in the Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased), press it down firmly and evenly into the pan to create a compact layer.

            Chill to Set: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm.

              Cut and Store: Once set, remove the mixture from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut it into squares or bars of your desired size. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

                Serve and Enjoy: These colorful, crunchy snack bars are perfect for school lunches, after-school snacks, or even a fun weekend treat!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 16 bars