Homemade energy bars!!

These are fast becoming my favorite pre-run snack ever. Husband is on an indefinite hiatus from running, apparently, but he's been eating these too because they're yummy. They were filling enough to get me through nearly 7 miles (including speedwork) the other night - probably comparable to a powerbar, but cheaper.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup salted dry-roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup roasted sunflower seed kernels (or more peanuts/other nuts)
• 1/2 cup raisins or other dried fruit
• 2 cups uncooked oatmeal, old-fashioned or instant
• 2 cups toasted rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies
• 1/2 cup peanut butter, crunchy or creamy
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla             
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted wheat germ

Directions:

• In a large bowl, mix the peanuts, sunflower seeds, raisins, oat-
  meal, and toasted rice cereal (and wheat germ). Set aside.
• In a medium microwaveable bowl, combine the peanut butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Add vanilla and stir until blended.
• Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients; mix well.
• For squares, spoon the mixture into an 8"x 8" pan coated with cooking spray; for bars spoon it into a 9" x 13" pan. Press down firmly. (It helps to coat your fingers with oil or cooking spray.)
• Let stand for about an hour, then cut into squares or bars. 

(Credit: active.com.)