Festive crunch with nuts, seeds, fruits, and white chocolate, perfect for cozy winter gatherings.
# Components:
→ Nuts & Seeds
01 - 1 cup unsalted roasted almonds
02 - 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
03 - 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
→ Dried Fruits
04 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
05 - 1/3 cup dried apricots, chopped
06 - 1/4 cup dried blueberries
→ Grains & Crunch
07 - 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
08 - 1 cup crisp rice cereal
→ Bind & Sweeten
09 - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
10 - 1/3 cup creamy almond butter
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
13 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
14 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Topping
15 - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
16 - 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
02 - Mix almonds, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, chopped apricots, dried blueberries, rolled oats, and crisp rice cereal in a large bowl.
03 - Heat honey or maple syrup, almond butter, unsalted butter, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract over medium heat in a small saucepan, stirring until smooth and melted, about 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
04 - Pour the warm binding mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until evenly coated.
05 - Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly and evenly using a spatula or measuring cup back.
06 - Evenly sprinkle white chocolate chips and festive sprinkles on the surface and gently press into the mixture.
07 - Refrigerate for at least one hour until firm.
08 - Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper, cut into 12 portions, and store in an airtight container refrigerated for up to one week.
