Delicious snacks are filled with added sugar and artificial ingredients, right? Wrong! These Homemade Energy Bars are made with natural ingredients and are full of nutrition. The base of the recipe starts with flavorful, fiber-packed organic dates. There are a number of ways to customize the flavors of these no-bake bars. We chose to make the Fudge Brownie and Carrot Cake varieties. Check ‘em out!
“These bars are perfect to grab on my way out the door! I love the flavor and the boost of nutrition in the morning." – Chelsey G.
Time:
45
Serves: 6
Serving size: 1 bar
Ingredients:
***Fudge Brownie Bars
1 cup pitted dates (about 6-9)
1 cup warm water
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup walnuts
3 tablespoons bittersweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/8 teaspoon salt, optional ***Carrot Cake Bars
1/2 cup pitted dates dates (about 3-4)
1/4 cup pineapple rings, (about 3)
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup raisins 1 cup walnuts 1/4 cup carrots, peeled and shredded 1/8 teaspoon salt, optional 1/4 cup coconut shreds 2 teaspoons coconut oil 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
-
1. Line a 9x5 loaf pan with plastic wrap and lightly coat with non-stick spray or oil of choice. 2. To soften dates and other fruits, combine with water in a small bowl and let stand for 5-10 minutes. Skip this step if your fruit is already soft. 3. In a food processor, add nuts and pulse until finely chopped, but not a paste. Drain the softened fruit from water. Add fruit and remaining ingredients to the food processor. Pulse for about 2 minutes, until fruit is finely chopped and the mixture starts to stick together. 4. Transfer mixture to prepared pan. To flatten the mixture into the pan, spray a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper with nonstick spray, and use it to spread mixture evenly. Leave bars covered and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 5. Lift the plastic wrap from the bottom of the pan to remove bars, and transfer to a cutting board. Uncover and cut into 6 even bars. 6. Enjoy immediately or wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Bars will keep for 3 days at room temperature, or for up to 3 weeks in the fridge.
Nutrition facts (per serving):
Calories 261 Fat 18.4 grams [Saturated Fat 5.6 g, Trans Fat 0 g, Monounsaturated Fat 1.7 g, Polyunsaturated Fat 9.3 g] Protein 4.1 grams Sodium 33 mgs Carbohydrates 21 grams Fiber 3.9 grams