Cooking with Colleen: Peanut energy bars

I’ve always been fascinated by ingredients and wondered how they combine to make entirely new foods, especially recipes that are pretty easy to make like this one. Though I am by no means a chef, I still appreciate any chance I get to see how food items are made purely because I still cannot fathom how simple ingredients like flour, chocolate chips and sugar (among other ingredients) can form together to make brownies.

A simple, healthy energy bar that provides plenty of protein for the day ahead is a necessity for me, especially when I have multiple classes in the day and don’t have time to go to Barone or stop at the Stags on the Run convenience store for a KIND bar and cereal. It’s a very handy recipe for those of you out there like myself who aren’t fortunate enough to have a kitchen nearby, as this recipe does not require a stove; all you need is a microwave and a few bowls.

Peanut Energy Bars

Serves 8-10

½ cup salted dry-roasted peanuts

½ cup roasted sunflower seed kernels

½ cup raisins

2 cups uncooked oatmeal

2 cups Rice Krispies

½ cup peanut butter

½ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

1. In a large bowl, mix the peanuts, sunflower seeds, raisins, oatmeal and Rice Krispies.
2. In a microwavable bowl, combine the peanut butter, brown sugar and corn syrup
3. Microwave the mixture for 2 minutes.
4. Add vanilla to the microwaved mixture and stir until blended.
5. Pour the microwaved mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until coated.
6. Put the mixture in an pan (8×8 inches for squares and 9×13 inches for bars) and press down firmly.
7. Let stand for about an hour and then cut it into squares or bars.