Making Nut & Seed Bars is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, mixed nuts, mixed seeds, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter over low heat. Stir until fully melted and combined. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Ensure all dry ingredients are well coated.

5. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the dried fruits or chocolate chips gently to avoid clumping.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly to create an even layer. A spatula or your hands can be used to ensure it’s tightly packed.

7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for about 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out.

9. Slice Bars: Once cooled, transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

These steps will guide you in creating your amazing Nut & Seed Bars easily.