This is a recipe that I found while trying to recreate the delicious homemade granola bars from Kayak's, right across from campus. I wanted to create a ~healthier alternative to storebought granola bars, and who doesn't love a good mix of salty and sweet. Over time I've altered this recipe little by little to find just how I like it, so take this with a grain of salt (pun intented) to create your perfect granola bar.
Line an 8 to 9-inch square baker with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, almonds, chocolate chips, cinnamon and salt. Whisk to combine.
Measure out the nut butter. Top with ½ cup honey and the vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.
Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a big spoon to mix until no dry oats remain. The drier the mixture, the more firm the bars will be; stir in extra oats if the mixture seems wet.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared square baker. Arrange the mixture fairly evenly in the baker, then use the bottom of a flat, round surface (like a short, sturdy drinking glass), covered in a small piece of parchment paper to pack the mixture down as firmly and evenly as possible.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight. Use a sharp knife to slice the bars. Bars keep well for a couple of days at room temperature, but I recommend storing individually wrapped bars in the freezer for best flavor.