A&P Spanish Bar

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Pan**:
Start by preparing an 8×8-inch square pan or similar-sized baking dish. Line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent the bars from sticking.

#### 2. **Make the Syrup Mixture**:
In a medium saucepan, combine the light corn syrup, sugar, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about **3-4 minutes** until it thickens slightly.

#### 3. **Add the Coconut and Vanilla**:
Once the syrup mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract (if using). The coconut will absorb the syrup and become the chewy base for the bars.

#### 4. **Mix in the Rice Cereal**:
Add the rice cereal to the coconut and syrup mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until the cereal is evenly coated with the sweet syrup. This step is crucial for making sure each piece of cereal gets that delicious sticky coating.

#### 5. **Transfer to the Pan**:
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to press it down evenly and compact the bars. Be sure not to over-press the mixture; a gentle press will help maintain the chewy texture of the bars.

#### 6. **Cool and Set**:
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For faster cooling, you can refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. Once they’ve fully set and are firm to the touch, cut them into squares or rectangles.

#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Once the A&P Spanish Bars are cut into pieces, they are ready to be served. Enjoy these chewy, sweet treats with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.

### Tips for Perfect A&P Spanish Bars:
– **Customization**: Feel free to add extra ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits to make the bars even more special. Walnuts or almonds can add a nice crunch, while chocolate will give them an extra layer of richness.
– **Consistency**: If you prefer a firmer bar, try letting the mixture set for a bit longer or pressing it down more firmly. For a softer, chewier bar, be gentler when pressing it into the pan.
– **Storage**: These bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for about 5-7 days, though they rarely last that long!

### Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 16 bars):
– **Calories**: 180
– **Fat**: 8g
– **Carbs**: 28g
– **Protein**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 15g

### Why the A&P Spanish Bar Endures:

The **A&P Spanish Bar** is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a part of **nostalgic food history**. For those who remember the A&P grocery chain, these bars were an easy and affordable indulgence that could be enjoyed by the whole family. With just a few simple ingredients, they provided the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and convenience.

Though the A&P stores have faded into history, the recipe lives on as a testament to the simple joys of food that doesn’t need to be complicated to be great. This retro treat is perfect for anyone who loves a chewy, sweet snack or is looking to try something from the past that still holds up today.

So whether you’re revisiting a cherished childhood favorite or trying the A&P Spanish Bar for the first time, this recipe is sure to hit the spot with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Give it a try and bring a little bit of retro sweetness back into your life!