Teacher appreciation week was a couple of weeks ago and I signed up to bring a “mid-day pick me up” treat. I wanted to steer clear of the baked goods since I knew they’d get their fair share of those, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to bring in. I happened upon these on good ol’ Pinterest and knew these would be a hit. They are healthy, some great protein and natural ingredients, but they are also hit that sweet and salty combo that I know I need during the afternoon. Plus, popcorn is always a winner in my book.

These bars are filled with most everything I love. I mean, to be completely honest I would need chocolate to cover all of my bases, but I thought these were already packed full of goodness and didn’t need anything else. We’ll see what I do in the future though 🙂

The bars were a huge hit, but I’ll admit I didn’t end up bringing them in to school. When they were out for a period of time the honey started to get really sticky and I didn’t want to do that to the poor teachers. I’ll definitely make these when I know they wont be sitting out most of the day. I know they’ll enjoy them. They didn’t last long in my house!

Popcorn Trail Mix Bars

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 3/4 cup almonds, chopped
• 8 cups plain popped popcorn
• 2 cups old fashion rolled oats
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced dried apricots
• 3/4 cup honey
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Spread coconut on an ungreased baking sheet and bake until lightly toasted, stirring once or twice, for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool. Wipe off baking sheet and spread almonds on it. Bake until golden brown and fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes,stirring once or twice. Transfer to bowl with coconut to cool.

Lightly spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine popcorn, oats, coconut, almonds, raisins and apricots.

In a small pan over low heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Pour honey mixture over popcorn mixture. Stir until all of the ingredients are well-coated and there are no dry spots. Transfer mixture to baking dish. Using lightly moistened palms, firmly press mixture into baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

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