Homemade Low Calorie Granola & Protein Bars

Great for a low calorie meal or snack with the right balance of Carbs, fats, and protein. Good for those on Body for Life or other eating programs with 5 to 6 meals per day.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 12
• Yields: 12 bars

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄2 cups rolled oats
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped  almonds
• 1⁄4 cup  natural-style peanut butter
• 1⁄2 cup Splenda sugar substitute
• 1⁄2 cup honey
• 2  egg whites
• 1 1⁄2 cups  vanilla protein powder
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped raisins
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped dried cranberries (craisins)
• 1⁄2 cup  mini chocolate chip
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1  teaspoon baking soda
• 2  teaspoons olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place first 3 ingredients in oven on cookie sheet to toast for 15 minutes.
3. While they are toasting mix remaining ingredients in large bowl.
4. Let oats and nuts cool after toasting for 10 minutes.
5. While oats and nuts are cooling, take a glass rectangular baking dish and place a sheet of parchment paper in the bottom and coat dish with oil.
6. Mix all ingredients in bowl well, and spoon into baking dish, making sure to press down into a smooth, flat layer.
7. Bake for 25 minutes. let cool for 5 minutes, cut along sides with knife to loosen from pan, and then turn pan over onto a cutting board. cut into 12 individual bars. these will harden some when they cool.