Homemade Energy Bars
Table of Contents
Ingredients (Makes 12 pieces)
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- 1 cup dates (130g)
- 1/2 cup dried apricots (80g)
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- 1/2 cup prunes (80g)
- 1/2 cup cashews (70g)
- 1 cup desiccated coconut (60g)
- 1-2 tbsp ground oats (optional)
Nutritional Information (Per Piece)
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- Calories: 129
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 19.7g
- Protein: 2g
Directions
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- Soak the Fruits:
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- Soak 1 cup of dates and 1/2 cup of dried apricots in hot water for 10 minutes to soften them.
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- Grind the Cashews:
- Use a food processor to grind 1/2 cup of cashew nuts until they are finely chopped.
- Soak the Fruits:
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- Blend the Fruits:
- Add the soaked dates and apricots to the food processor, along with 1/2 cup of prunes.
- Blend for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Blend the Fruits:
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- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add 1 cup of desiccated coconut to the mixture and blend again to combine.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of ground oats and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
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- Shape the Mixture:
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- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Spread the mixture on the tray, pressing it down with your hands to create an even layer.
- Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or a spatula.
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- Chill:
- Place the tray in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
- Shape the Mixture:
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- Cut into Bars:
- Once the mixture is firm, remove it from the fridge or freezer.
- Cut into bars or bite-sized pieces.
- Cut into Bars:
- Store:
- Store the energy bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
These homemade energy bars are perfect for a quick snack, a pre-workout boost, or a healthy treat. Enjoy them on their own or with a cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a little honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
- Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to create your favorite combination.
Nutritional Benefits
These energy bars are packed with natural sugars, healthy fats, and fiber, providing a quick and sustained energy boost. They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals from the dried fruits and nuts.
Dietary Information
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- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (if using gluten-free oats)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Storage Tips
Store the energy bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer and thaw as needed.