Easy Peanut Butter Power Bars

These are a great 'pick me up', that are easy to make, and can be tweaked with your favorite ingredients. These do not come out crunchy, but rather slightly toffee like, but can be sliced and packed for easy carrying.

Ingredients (makes an 8 x 10 dish):
1 cup peanut butter (I like smooth, but you can use crunchy as well)
1 cup maple syrup, or agave nectar (or a mixture of both)
2 1/2 cups oats (If using quick cooking, but if you are using an old fashioned oat, use about 1/2 cup less)
1/4 tsp sea salt



Optional 'stir-ins' (choose 1-2 of them):
1/8 cup protein powder (This is my favorite)
1/4 cup cranberries or raisins, goji berries, or other dried fruit
1/4 cup chopped nuts
1/4 cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate tastes great!)
1/8 cup ground flax seeds (adds an omega 3 boost)

1) In a medium pot, over medium heat, mix peanut butter and syrup. Heat, stirring constantly, until they begin to bubble, and melt down. Stir in oats, and any other 'stir-ins' that you like. Press down into a lightly greased 8 x 10 baking dish, and allow to cool, and set (you can place it in the fridge). Cut into desired bar shapes, and enjoy!