This gluten-free, vegan, snack bar is high in fiber and a great after-school or post-workout snack. The recipe calls for chia seeds because they work to bind the ingredients together (similar to eggs in a cookie recipe) and adds nutritional value. Popcorn can be crushed in a blender (just a few pulses) or by hand by putting popcorn in a sealed bag and pressing down with a pestle or metal cup.
INGREDIENTS
Popcorn:
1/2 cup kernels (yields approx 12 cups popcorn), such as Amish Country Baby White (non-GMO and Kosher)
3 Tblsp oil, high smokepoint such as avocado, sunflower, or canola
Salt
6 cups crushed popcorn
3 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped almonds, unsalted
1 Tablespoon cinnamon
1 cup raisins or pitted dates
2/3 cup honey
2/3 cup light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS
Prepare loaf pan by using a long sheet of parchment to line the pan. Place it widthwise across the pan, creasing inside at bottom corners and outside over top rim to hold it in place. Use the extra length to wrap over top of the loaf when done.
Popcorn:
Place kettle on burner at high heat.
Add oil and kernels then cover with lid.
Listen for popping to start, crescendo, and then slow to intervals of a few seconds. Turn off heat, listen for popping to stop, then remove the lid and empty contents into large bowl.
Salt to taste, toss, and set aside.
Bar:
Add crushed popcorn, oats, almonds, raisins, and cinnamon to a large mixing bowl and set aside. In a small saucier over medium-high heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and salt. Warm until the brown sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, as it reaches a boil the mixture will foam up. Lower heat to medium and simmer at low boil for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove pot from heat, add chia seeds and allow to rest for ten minutes. Then pour honey mixture over popcorn mixture. Mix together until combined. It will form small sticky clusters.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use wax paper to press the mixture firmly into the baking dish. Cool in fridge, then cut into bars.