Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, puffed rice, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips (if using). Stir well to mix all the dry ingredients.

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.

Pour the warm honey mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Once cooled, cut into bars or squares and store in an airtight container.