No Bake Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

1/2 c. slivered or sliced almonds

1.5 c. raw unsalted cashews, coarsely chopped

1.5 c. old fashioned rolled oats

1.5 c. crispy brown rice puffs cereal (Erewhon or 365 brand found at Whole Foods)

1 c. coconut nectar (or brown rice syrup) (can be purchased at WF, amazon.com, vitacost.com)

1/4 c. raw coconut crystals (or date sugar) (can be purchased at WF, amazon.com, vitacost.com)

2 t. vanilla extract

1/4 c. dark chocolate chips

Line a 9x13 baking dish with foil.  Lightly mist with olive oil spray.  In a large skillet, toast almonds on medium heat, for several minutes until lightly browned.  Coarsely chop cashews and repeat toasting procedure in skillet.  Stir nuts continuously when toasting, taking care not to burn them.  Add nuts, oats and cereal to a large bowl and stir well.  In a small saucepan, heat the nectar, crystals, and vanilla over medium heat.  Stir constantly to avoid burning.  Once it comes to a light boil, reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the syrup thickens.  Pour syrup over the oat mixture and stir until everything is coated.  

Spread 1/3 of the oat mixture into 9x13 pan.  Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips on top.  Gently make another layer of 1/3 of the oat mixture.  Sprinkle remaining half of chocolate chips on top.  Gently scoop a final layer using the remaining oat mixture.  Press granola mixture down firmly in pan using a rubber spatula.  I like to put a disposable kitchen glove on one hand, mist it with olive oil spray, and press everything down till it's compact.  Transfer pan immediately to fridge for 10-15 minutes to cool and make cutting easier.  Cut into 1"x4.5" bars.  You'll want to wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap for easy portability and to keep them from sticking together.  Store bars individually wrapped and in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to two weeks.  Instead of (or in addition to) chocolate chips, you can use 1/4 cup raisins, 1/2 cup dried blueberries/goji berries, etc.  You could also add ground flaxseed, shredded unsweetened coconut, etc.  Delicious! 

(Adapted from The Naked Kitchen)