Homemade Muesli Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups extra-virgin rolled oats
• 1/2 cup wheat germ flakes
• 1 cup flaked almonds
• 1 cup coconut flakes (do not pack)
• 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1.5 tsp natural vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease a 20x30 cm baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
   
   Combine the oats, almonds, and coconut on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in the wheat germ flakes.
2. Reduce oven temperature to 150°C.
   
   In a small saucepan, place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract and salt and bring to a boil over medium heat.
   
   Cook, stirring, for 1 minute, then pour over the toasted oat mixture. Add the dates, dried apricots, and cranberries and mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Wet your fingers and press it lightly into the bottom of the pan, smoothing the surface.
   
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Cool for at least 2-3 hours, then cut into squares. Serve the bars at room temperature.