Trail Mix Bars

Trail mix is a snack food commonly used in outdoor recreational activities like hiking, backpacking and mountaineering. It usually consists of a mixture of nuts, seeds and dried fruits such as raisins and cranberries. It's energy rich and has a high content of vitamins and minerals. Fussy eaters often eat more between meals than they do at mealtimes, so it's important to give them healthy snacks.

Hands-On Time: 10 minutes
Ready In: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 bars

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
3 tbsp golden syrup, such as Lyle's, or honey
1 1/3 cups quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup Cheerios
1/4 cup raisins
2 tbsp to 1/4 cup salted peanuts
1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 tsp salt

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Line an 8-inch square pan with baking parchment and grease lightly.
3. Put the butter and golden syrup in a small pan over low heat until the butter has melted. Set aside to cool.
4. Put the remaining ingredients in a large bowl and stir together. Add the cooled butter mixture and mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared tin and press down firmly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is just firm to the touch.
6. Remove from the oven, allow to cool for 15 minutes, then cut into 8 bars, using a sharp knife. Allow to cool completely before lifting from the pan. Store in an airtight container.

Variation
You can buy Golden Syrup in Wholefoods stores or use honey instead. You can also substitute pumpkin seeds for peanuts and dried cranberries for chocolate chips.