CHEWY PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP GRANOLA BARS

 3 cups rolled or quick oats

1/2 cup nuts (chopped peanuts, sliced almonds, or chopped pecans)

3/4 cup crunchy peanut butter

1/3 cup honey 

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

1/4 cup plus 2 Tbsps mini chocolate chips

1.  Line a 9” square pan with parchment paper allowing enough to overhang the edges. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Set pan aside. 

2.  Spread oats and nuts on a baking sheet and toast in oven at 350° for 5 minutes, stir and toast another 3-5 mins.  Let cool 5-10 minutes. 

3.  In small saucepan combine honey, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Heat until butter melts and sugar is dissolved. Boil one minute. Turn off heat, add peanut butter and stir til melted and ingredients are well mixed.

4.  Put oat and nut mixture into large bowl. Pour hot liquid over oat mixture and stir well. Cool 5 mins then stir in chocolate chips. 

5.  Pour mixture into prepared square pan and use another piece of parchment paper to press down firmly. 

6.  Let cool 2 hours then cut into 12 or 16 bars. Store in tightly closed container.