Vanilla Nut Cereal Bars

Well, we are still getting the house in order following the remodel.  Final touches.  That's code for still crazy busy.  Workers coming and going.  Dog constantly barking.  Husband steadily grumbling.  Wife holding her tongue.  Mostly.

This morning I wanted a quick grab and go snack.  We were out of my favorite granola bars.  Instead of running to the store (because I had to be here to let workers in), I decided to whip up some cereal bars with what I had on hand.  It took less time than a trip to the store and tasted much better.  Here's how I did it:

VANILLA NUT CEREAL BARS

2 TBS butter (plus extra for buttering dish)
2 cups mini marshmallows (or 15 big marshmallows)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup Rice Krispies
1 cup Honey Nut Cheerios
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts

Butter an 8 inch square dish.

In a pot (big enough to mix everything in), melt the butter and marshmallows over medium-low heat.  Stir this often to keep it from burning.

Once it is all melted together and smooth, remove it from the heat.  Then add the vanilla.

Add the cereals and nuts.  Stir well.

Press into the buttered dish.  I dampen my hands and press it out flat.  Using damp hands keeps it from sticking.

Let it sit for a few minutes to set up then cut it into 12 small squares.

These are so yummy!  They are sweet and salty (from the peanuts) and the vanilla gives them a great warmth.  The best part about these cereal bars?  No preservatives.  You control the ingredients.  Use whatever cereal you like.  Use whatever nuts you like.  Make them for a chocolate-lover by using cocoa krispies and almonds.  Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Apple Jacks would be good.  Granola cereal and sunflower seeds.  Whatever flavors you think would taste good together.  You can easily double this recipe and press it into a 9x13 baking dish.  I love a customizable recipe!  These keep well in an airtight container.  Great for a lunch box or afternoon snack.  Enjoy!