Homemade "Clif Bars"

While trying to find recipes to improve our diet, I looked for lots of recipes to replace the soy-filled Clif bars we like. I started with this one. She is very good at describing the process and taking pictures! Thanks for sharing with the world! She also has tons of ideas for varieties. I had not heard of Clif Z-bars until reading this post.

The recipe I have used is a mix up of the two. These homemade yummies are a great snack, meal stand-in, and also perfect gift (college students during finals week really appreciate them!).

The original recipe makes an 8x8. If I am going to make them, I want more for the freezer, fridge, or to share. This recipe is for a 9x13 size.

2.5 cups crisp rice cereal

2 cups uncooked quick cooking oats 

4 T flaxseed meal

1/2 cup chopped dried fruit of choice (I put it in the Magic Bullet rather than hand-chop)

1/2 cup finely chopped nuts or seeds (again, I use my Magic Bullet for this)

2/3 cup honey (or preferred syrup sweetener)

1 cup peanut butter (you could use other types: almond, etc)

1/8 cup of water

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 package instant pudding (my favorite is dark chocolate)

I had a pretty cute helper!

Coat a 9x13 pan with coconut oil (or non-stick cooking spray). 

Mix cereal, oats, flaxseed, fruit, and nuts in a large bowl. 

Mix peanut butter, water, pudding mix, and honey in a large saucepan. Heat until it is mixed well and smooth. Pour in vanilla and stir well. 

Pour cereal mix slowly in to pan so that all the cereal mix is coated. 

Pour the mixture into the 9x13 pan and press it in firmly. Wax paper allows you to keep your hands clean.

Cool in the pan and then chill for at least 30 minutes. Cut into 24 bars. 

The original recipe states to store these in the refrigerator. I have stored them at room temperature and they have been fine as we tend to share and eat them quickly!

Updated 1/11/14