Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (162°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chosen mixed nuts, optional dried coconut, and any dried fruit such as cranberries. Add pepitas and chia seeds, along with a pinch of sea salt. Stir thoroughly.

In a separate bowl, pour in the maple syrup and add the vanilla extract. Mix until well-blended.

Pour the wet mixture over your dry ingredients and gently fold everything together. Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking pan.

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and let the granola bars bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.

Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for at least one hour. Lift the parchment paper to transfer to a cutting board and slice into 12 bars.