I use some salt in these, but you don’t have to. The salt counters the too-sweet for me, and enhances the overall flavors. I use unsalted roasted sunflower seeds, but if you use salted ones, you might want to reduce the salt. If you prefer, you can leave the salt out entirely. I like dried berries, but you can use raisins or any dried fruit you like, or even chocolate chips. OR no fruit (or chocolate) at all! The oats can be quick-cooking or regular, doesn’t matter.

Combine the oats, nuts, seeds, and berries in a large mixing bowl. Combine the remaining ingredients in a small saucepan and heat to boiling. As soon as the mixture boils, take it off the heat and pour it over the dried mixture. Spread smoothly in a 9 x 12 pan lined with lightly greased foil. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove, let cool–but not all the way. You want to cut them while they’re still a little soft. If you cut them when they’re too soft, they’ll fall apart, so test till they slice cleanly.