(This blog was created by guest blogger, Beth Menhusen, a dietetic student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Beth also has her own Blog, bethtalksnutrition.weebly.com)

Most of us know that it’s super easy to grab a packaged granola bar on our way out the door, but did you know that you can quickly make your own? This recipe is loaded with nutrients, is cheaper, and has fewer preservatives!

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 3.5 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup coconut

Directions: 

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Peel and grate the carrots. For a little extra money, you could buy a bag of carrot shreds and make this process even faster.

3. Measure your peanut butter and honey and mix together in a large sauce pan. Cook on low heat until melted.

4. Remove the pan from heat and turn off the burner.

5. Add oatmeal, raisins, carrots, and coconut to the saucepan. Stir well, and let it cool until you can safely touch it with your hands.

6. Put the mix into the baking and press firmly into the bottom.

7. Bake for 25 minutes and then cut into 24 square bars. If you want long rectangular bars like what you purchase at the store, then use a larger, thinner pan.

Recipe Source: Pennsylvania Nutrition Education Program, Pennsylvania Nutrition Education Network
Website Recipe, http://recipefinder.nal.usda.gov/recipes/granola-bars