Protein Power Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Ingredients:

2 cups old fashioned oats (Gluten Free if desired)
¾ cup natural peanut butter
¼ cup protein powder
½ cup peanuts (or other nut), chopped
1 Tbsp organic coconut oil, melted
1/3 cup organic honey or real maple syrup

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.
Combine first 6 ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Place mixture in dish and  spread to all edges. Place another sheet of parchment paper on top of the mixture.  Press it firmly down with a  heavy object like a large tomato can, cast-iron skillet, or rolling pin – really!
Pull off top parchment paper (save for later) and bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes.
When the bars are finished baking, take out of the oven and again press them with parchment and heavy object.

Once cool to the touch, place in refrigerator at least 30 minutes to cool completely. Cut into 12-18 bars. Store bars in the refrigerator.

Nutrition: (when making 18 bars) Per bar: Approximately 170 calories, 17 grams carbs, 7-10 grams protein, 4 grams fiber.

Thank you to Kelli, Apex Nutrition for this recipe. http://www.apexnutritionllc.com/fuelrightblog/