Chewy Coconut Granola Bars

1 cup old-fashioned oats

1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut

1/2 cup of your favourite nuts, coarsely chopped (I used almonds and cashews!)

1/2 cup ground flaxseed

1/4 cup sesame seeds

3 tablespoons of wheat germ

1 tablespoons whole wheat pastry flour (if you cannot have gluten, substitute with rice flour!)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup packed coconut oil

1/2 cup honey

optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Line your container with parchment paper so the squares come out easier.

You can also freeze these. They last about 3-4 days in the fridge, but can last months in the freezer. I also like to eat them frozen! Try not to leave them outside the fridge for too long as they will become brittle and crumble.

In a large bowl, combine oats, coconut, flour, flaxseed, wheat germ, nuts, sesame seeds, salt and chocolate chip, mixing very thoroughly until combined. In a small bowl, combine honey and coconut oil, microwaving on high powder for 10 seconds at a time, stirring after each increment, until coconut oil is melted. Stir vanilla extract into coconut oil mixture, then pour the entire mix over the dry ingredients.

Using a large wooden spoon, stir until all of the ingredients are wet, using your hands and bring it together like a dough. Press the dough into the pan, pressing with the back of the spoon to smooth the top. Place in the refrigerate for 90 minutes, then remove and cut into squares.

Serving Size: makes 12 squares

Number of Servings: 12

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user ZEPHYRKAYE.