Chewy Granola Bars

I was one of those moms that like to just be able to pull out a box of Quaker Granola Bars for days at the park or on a road trip. Can't do that anymore! I was able to find this recipe online. I thought they tasted pretty good and the kids really liked them. I have made it with and without Xanthan Gum ( 1/2 tsp) and didn't really notice a difference.
• 4 1/2 cups rolled oats (GF)
• 1 cup all-purpose GF flour (I used the Featherlite)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 cups chocolate chips (raisins or nuts etc.)
I added a handful of miniature marshmallows

DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Lightly grease one 9x13 inch pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl combine the oats, flour, baking soda, vanilla, butter or margarine, honey and brown sugar. Stir in the 2 cups assorted chocolate chips, raisins, nuts etc.
3. Lightly press mixture into the prepared pan. Bake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes then cut into bars. Let bars cool completely in pan before removing or serving.

** After removing them from the oven, I actually took my spatula and pressed on the entire pan of granola bars. It kind of helps 'glue' them together. Let it cool for the ten minutes and then cut them into bars.