Homemade Dried Fruit Energy Bars Packed with Healthy Goodness
These dried fruit energy bars are a no-bake, healthy snack full of wholesome ingredients like quinoa, almond butter, and oats, providing natural sweetness and energy without refined sugars.
Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Large bowl
- Food processor
- Sharp serrated knife
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup quinoa rinsed
- 10 medjool dates pitted
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2/3 cup almond butter
- 3 tablespoons whey protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting it overhang the edges for easy removal.
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly, then cook according to package instructions. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool completely.
- In a food processor, combine Medjool dates, coconut oil, almond butter, protein powder, and vanilla extract. Process until smooth and creamy.
- Add the coconut flakes and chia seeds to the processor. Pulse until fully mixed.
- Pour in the oats and cooled quinoa. Pulse again until the mixture is well combined and starts to clump together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it's evenly spread and tightly packed.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and set.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut into 9 squares using a sharp, serrated knife.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.