Cat’s Corner Memorial Day Weekend Snack Treats

Catherine Mahrholz

This weekend, Memorial Day Weekend, is a time for all of us to reflect on our brave fallen military heroes. And last week was a time to remember our police officers who have given their lives in service to their communities.

At this time, with the fires that have raged across the country, and here in Teller County, I also reflect on our First Responders and Fire Fighters who have given their lives over the years.

Never mind that snow is in the forecast for this weekend! June is just around the corner and we can still look forward to the start of camping, glamping and summer vacations, and remember how lucky we are to live in the United States of America.

Please consider the following recipe that I have prepared over the years, to rave reviews. These are energy bars, packed with protein and flavor. If your Memorial Weekend plans include a drive to visit family or just to have on hand, these homemade energy bars will offset the cost of a quest for snacks when filling up the gas tank!

Energy Bars

A perfect snack or breakfast when traveling or even for a “staycation” here in our beautiful mountains of Colorado.

Measure out all the ingredients before you begin and butter a 9”x13” pan.

2 Tbs. butter

¼ cup peanut butter

¼ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup honey (Colorado honey may help with allergies)

1½ cups finely chopped walnuts

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla

½ cup raisins

2 cups whole wheat flakes *measure 4 cups and crush the flakes down to make 2 cups*

  1. In a heavy 6 qt. pot, combine the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar and honey.
  2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, just until mixture begins to simmer then remove from heat.
  3. Add walnuts, cinnamon and vanilla then stir until blended.
  4. Stir in raisins and crushed wheat flakes.
  5. With a spatula, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan then refrigerate for 5 minutes.
  6. Now you can cut this mixture into bars. I wrap them up in individual foil packets and keep them in the refrigerator or cooler for a great snack or breakfast on the go.