Chocolate Cherry Granola Bars

This is adapted from a Barefoot Contessa Recipe.   It is very good, very easy, and makes a lot!  I take these to work occasionally, and they are gone in hours.

• 3 cups old-fashioned oatmeal
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup protien powder
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup orange blossom honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 c dried cherries
• 1/2 c mini chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.

Toss the oatmeal, walnuts, and coconut together on a sheet pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the protien powder.


Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F.


Place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.

Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture. Add the cherries and chocolate and stir well.


Pour the mixture onto the baking sheet  lined with parchment paper.   Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature.