Homemade Granola Bars from Genius Kitchen

2 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 c wheat germ
1/4 c flax seed
1/4 c sesame seeds
1 c almonds
1/2 c coconut
1 tsp sea salt or kosher salt
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 c honey
4 TB butter
1/4 c brown sugar
1 c dried fruit (dates)

Preheat oven to 325. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil. Combine 1st 5 ingredients and spread out in the lined pan. Toast 10-15 minutes (or 5-10 minutes) until golden brown, stirring occasionally. In a large bowl, combine coconut, salt, cinnamon, and dried fruit. In a large microwave-safe measuring cup, place vanilla, honey, butter, and brown sugar. Microwave 2 minutes until brown sugar is dissolved. Mix toasted mixture with coconut mixture, then add microwave mixture. Line a 9 X 13 pan with waxed paper, Spread mixture using the back of the spoon to flatten and press together. Place another sheet of waxed paper on top and compress mixture again to compact granola.

Refrigerate and cool 2 hours. Press knife down to cut - DO NOT SAW. Wrap pieces in waxed paper and store in the refrogerator or freezer.