Dark Chocolate Chunk Quinoa Granola Bars

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Butter an 8 x 12 in glassbaking dish (or a similar size) and line it with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Combine the oats, quinoa, almonds, and coconut together on an unlined baking pan and bake for 12 minutes, or until lightly browned, stirring every 4 minutes.

3. 3

   Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ.

4. 4

   Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F.

5. 5

   Place the oil, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Bring to a boil (the mixture will start foaming) Once boiling, cook for 60 seconds, stirring constantly.

6. 6

   Pour the syrup over the toasted oatmeal mixture. Add the dates and craisins and stir well.

7. 7

   Stir in the dark chocolate chunks, because the mixture is so warm, you will find some of the chocolate melting.

8. 8

   Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and gently, but firmly press the mixture evenly into the pan using your fingers. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the granola is a light golden brown color.

9. 9

   Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before removing from the pan and cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.