TDF Granola Bars

I'm so excited to post this recipe. I found this recipe on the internet here, that I guess originally came from Rachel Ray. Of course I changed a few things such as adding vanilla extract and a little salt. The outcome of this recipe was TRULY a success. I love the flavor and versatility of this recipe. For the topping on my granola bars I used semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. You could also use chocolate chips and marshmallows , with some crushed graham crackers for s'more granola bars. I also think nuts, M&M's, or chopped dried fruit would be excellent. These granola bars turned out chewy just like Quaker Granola Bars and the flavor was TDF! I had alot of fun making them with my four year old, and it probably only takes about 5 minutes to make. When buying granola, go with the most low fat, plain granola that you can find since you will be adding the flavor and fat when making your own granola bars. I found mine at our farmer's market called Henry's, in the bulk bin section. After cutting up the bars, I wrapped them in plastic wrap/wax paper, for my husband's lunch...what a treat and a money saver! If you would like a thicker bar, use a slightly smaller pan than a 9x13, say 9x9 or even an 8x8.

TDF Granola Bars

4 tbsp butter
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c. honey
1/4 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp salt
2 c. plain granola
1 c. rice crispies
1/4-1/3 c. chocolate chips, dried fruit, etc.

Combine honey, butter and salt in a medium saucepan over medium high heat. Stir until butter is completely melted, bring to a boil, then lower heat to medium low and let boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat, add vanilla, granola, and rice crispies. Pour mixture into an ungreased 9x13 pan lined with plastic wrap or wax paper. Press mixture evenly into pan, add toppings, pressing the topping into granola mixture. Note: I really pressed the mixture to make sure the bars we compact and dense. Put pan in fridge until set and firm, cut into 18 bars.