Pocono Pabulum for Mind & Body: Cheerios Bars

Cheerios Bars

I don't know many people who do not love Rice Krispie treats, but as the name suggests, they are a treat, and should not be eaten very often. Puffed white rice has no nutritional value and is processed in the body the same way that white sugar is, so when you add marshmallows (I don't even want to know what those are made of!) and butter, you might be left with a yummy snack, but it doesn't help you or your kids out in the long run. By switching the cereal to healthy whole grain Cheerios, with a touch of flax seed mixed in, and substituting almond butter and raw honey for the marshmallows and butter, you can create a delicious, sweet treat that is high in fiber and protein and will give you and your kids the energy they really need to face a busy day. I made these for one of our first soccer game filled weekends this past month and both of my kids gobbled up large pieces for breakfast and I took along an extra for me to eat on the run as well. They are great with a thin layer of chocolate on top, but it isn't necessary and are best eaten slightly cold. So although I do still get a craving for a taste of childhood and will make regular Rice Krispie treats (maybe using puffed brown rice instead!) every once in awhile, this recipe is definitely a better choice.

Cheerios Bars

1/2 C. all natural almond butter

ingredients

1/3 C. raw honey

1/4 C. ground flax seed

3 C. Cheerios

1/4 C. dark chocolate chips

1/4 tsp. organic virgin coconut oil

salt

Grease an 8 x 8 inch pan with cooking spray. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the honey and the almond butter together until smooth. Stir in the flax and then the Cheerios. Spread into the prepared baking pan and press down with a spatula or a piece of waxed paper to make the bars even. In a microwave safe bowl, melt together the chocolate chips and the coconut oil and then drizzle over top of the Cheerio bars. Sprinkle with salt, if desired. Place the pan in the freezer for 15 minutes and then store at room temperature or in the fridge.