Cranberry-Walnut Power Bars

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350.

2. 2

   Lightly spray an 8-by-11-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

3. 3

   Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast until fragrant and golden, about 9 minutes.

4. 4

   Let cool, then coarsely chop.

5. 5

   Transfer the walnuts to a large bowl.

6. 6

   Add the puffed rice, rolled oats, cranberries, oat bran and ginger and toss well.

7. 7

   In a small saucepan, combine the brown rice syrup, cane sugar and salt and bring to a boil over moderate heat.

8. 8

   Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 4 minutes.

9. 9

   Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

10. 10

    Pour the syrup into the rice-oat mixture and toss to coat thoroughly.

11. 11

    Transfer the warm mixture to the prepared baking dish and pack lightly with a spatula greased with cooking spray.

12. 12

    Let cool for at least 45 minutes before cutting into 16 bars.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.