Homemade No Bake Granola Bars for 12

Instructions:

1. Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to create a sling for easy removal.
2. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the honey, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble for 1 minute to create a thermal-set syrup.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Pour the hot liquid binder over the dry ingredients and stir quickly until every oat is thoroughly coated.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, ground flaxseed, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly for 5 minutes before folding in the miniature chocolate chips (this prevents total melting). Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan.
6. Using a flat-bottomed measuring cup or a heavy spatula, press the mixture into the pan with significant force to remove air pockets and ensure mechanical compression.
7. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours to allow the binder to harden. Lift the bars out using the parchment sling and slice into 12 even rectangles.