I am having so much fun with the after-school snacks! Have you tried the others (here, here, and here)? It's amazing how simple it is to come up with a delicious, easy, snack for the afternoon slump we all seem to feel, whether we've been sitting at a school desk or a work desk all day long.
Today's recipe is my spin on cereal bars. I love the classic rice cereal recipe, of course, but I like to experiment with other cereals, too. One of my favorite cereals to use is the honey-nut flavored Os. I've dressed these bars up with dried cranberries and toasted almonds, which kicks up the level of sophistication to include chewy, crunchy, salty, tart, and sweet flavors. You could add any dried fruit and nut combo that you like, or leave them plain. Either way, you'll be able to have an afternoon snack that will have you back on your game in no time!
Sophisticated Cereal Bars
4 tablespoons butter
1 package marshmallows
8 cups honey-nut flavored cereal
1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds (optional)
Directions
Prepare a 9 x 13 baking dish with non-stick spray. In a large pot over low heat, melt butter. Add marshmallows and stir occasionally until completely melted. Add cereal and stir/fold marshmallow into the cereal until well combined. Transfer to your prepared baking dish and press evenly. (Hint: Spray your hands with a little non-stick spray to keep it from sticking to you!) While still warm, immediately sprinkle dried fruit and nuts over the top and press into the top. Allow to cool completely before cutting and serving.
