chewy nutty squirrel bars

I’m sorry, but I don’t have a specific recipe for “chewy nutty squirrel bars” in my database. However, I can provide you with a general recipe for chewy nut bars that you can customize to your liking. These bars are a delicious and nutritious snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and peanuts), chopped
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or your favorite nut butter)
• 1/2 cup dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts and oats. Spread this mixture evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey and peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. In the same mixing bowl you used for the nuts and oats, combine the toasted nut and oat mixture, dried fruits, and chocolate chips (if using). Pour the honey-peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Use a piece of parchment paper or the back of a spoon to help flatten and smooth the top.
6. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set.
7. Once set, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
8. Enjoy your chewy nutty squirrel bars as a snack or on-the-go treat!

Feel free to customize these bars by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even some shredded coconut. They are a great source of energy and make for a satisfying and nutty snack.