Makes 18-20 bars

INGREDIENTS

1½ cups rolled oats
½ cup dried cherries
1 cup muesli (of your choice)
6 tablespoons butter
¼ cup nuts (*optional)
½ cup brown rice syrup
½ cup whey or soy protein powder
¼ cup wheat germ
1 teaspoon cardamom
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup brown sugar

PREPARATION

Preheat oven to 350ËšF. Prepare a half sheet tray with baking spray and set aside. On a separate sheet tray, toast oats and nuts in oven until golden brown and fragrant, 10 to15 minutes, and let cool. In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients. Meanwhile, place a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat and add liquids and warm through, 1 to 2 minutes. Add to dry ingredients, stir well and cool. Once cooled, add chocolate chips and combine. Press oat and nut mixture into prepared half sheet tray and bake for 20 minutes or until browned. Once out of oven, cool for 30 minutes. Once cooled, cut and place in refrigerator overnight. For on-the-go travel, wrap in wax paper.