Nut Butter Energy Bars

My nut butter granola bars will most certainly not give you wings like Redbull, but they will supply you with a slight boost of good-vibing energy. Made from wholesome oats, nuts and seeds, these practically no bake bars will curb any oncoming stomach rumblings. A perfect combination of healthy fats, natural sweetness and creamy nut butter.

This recipe was first published in Waitrose Food Magazine in London, UK. so I’ve included the weighted measurements as well.

Makes 16 large bars

Ingredients

2.5 cups (250 g) rolled or quick cooking oats

¼ cup (40 g) desiccated coconut

½ cup (40 g) sliced almonds

¼ cup (40 g) pumpkin seeds

1 cup (150 g) pitted dates

6 (50 g) pitted prunes

¼ cup (85 g) runny honey

½ cup (100 g) smooth or crunchy almond butter (or nut butter of your choice)

1 Tbsp coconut oil

1 Tsp ground cinnamon

3 Tbsp water

Pinch of Salt

optional melted dark chocolate to drizzle

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Line a square or rectangular tray with parchment paper. * I typically use a 9 x 9” or 9 x 13” rectangular

2. Combine oats, coconut, nuts and seeds. Tip onto the tray and toast for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally until golden brown

3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the dates, prunes, honey, almond butter, coconut oil, cinnamon, water and salt. Gently heat for 5 minutes. Tip into a food processor and blend until a smooth paste. Scrape the mixture into a large mixing bowl.

4. When the oats are ready and still warm, carefully tip them into the large mixing bowl with the date paste. Using a spatula, mix until well combined.

5. Place mixture into a square or rectangular mould lined with parchment paper, ensuring the surface is flat and even. Refrigerate until the mixture is firm and cool, 15-20 minutes. Slice into bars.