1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8×11-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, gently stir together cornflakes, oats, bran cereal, and chopped dates.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, and optional melted butter or oil until smooth.
4. Pour peanut butter mixture over dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
5. Spoon mixture into prepared pan and press down very firmly using the back of a spoon or clean hands.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden on top.
7. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan, then cut into bars.

Kid-Friendly Tips

• Pressing the mixture down tightly is the secret to chewy bars
• No eggs or mixers- great for beginner cooks
• Kids can safely stir and press ingredients
• Adults should handle the oven

Easy Variations

• Add mini chocolate chips after mixing (once slightly cooled)
• Mix in sunflower seeds or chopped nuts (with adult approval)
• Swap dates for raisins or dried cranberries

Storage

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2- 3 days or refrigerate for up to one week. These bars also freeze well for lunchbox snacks.