Snow Day Granola Bars.

Ok, so I'm on snow day number four today.  The city I work in still has unplowed roads and side walks so it's impossible for us to go back to school right now.  While I'm enjoying my time off I'm also going slightly insane.  Today I was at least able to get out and do some errands.  I also made some kick ass granola bars that I want to share with all of you.

Here's what you'll need:

2 cups quick oats

1 cup Rice Krispies cereal

1 1/2 cup chopped oreos

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup, we use agave nectar...you get the idea. Anything sweet, thick and sticky is perfect)

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup chocolate chips

How to make 'em:

First, grab an 8 X 8 pan, line it with foil or wax paper and lightly grease it.

Mix your quick oats, Rice Krispies and chopped oreos in a bowl.  Set aside.

Next, mix your butter, brown sugar and honey in a sauce pan and turn to medium heat.  Heat until it's melted together and begins to bubble.  Lower the heat and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

Pour your caramel mixture over your oats mixture and mix it thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are covered.

Put the mixture into the baking tin and spread evenly.  Place a piece of foil on top and press down firmly until it is packed tight and evenly.  Set aside.

Melt your chocolate chips on the stove (low heat, stirring constantly).  Drizzle over the top of your granola mixture. 

I put mine in a plastic baggie and snip off the tip like a pastry bag to make it look nice.

Finally, put the whole thing in the fridge for at least half an hour.  I like to keep mine in the fridge for a couple hours to make sure it's nice and firm.  Remove from fridge, peal away foil and cut into bar shapes.

Finally, serve and enjoy your delicious homemade granola bars!  Just FYI, my husband has already eaten half the batch and it hasn't even been 24 hours!  So be prepared.  They go fast with a guy in the house.  If you want more than one, you may want to hide some in a secret stash!