Chocolate-Cherry-Coconut Granola Bars

1 . Stage

Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with a piece of parchment paper that is large enough to go up all sides of the pan.

2 . Stage

Combine oats, rice cereal, coconut, almonds, and cherries in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

3 . Stage

Combine honey, peanut butter, brown sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until brown sugar is melted; continue to simmer for 1 minute more. Pour heated mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to fully combine. Stir in chocolate chips.

4 . Stage

Pour granola into the prepared baking pan and press firmly with a nonstick spatula or lightly oiled hands to tightly compact and distribute evenly throughout.

5 . Stage

Refrigerate for 2 hours.

6 . Stage

Remove from the refrigerator and slice into 20 equal portions. Tightly wrap individually in plastic wrap or serve immediately.