Naturally sweet, satisfying, and full of wholesome goodness, these Dried Fruit, Nut, and Seed Bars are the perfect homemade alternative to store-bought energy bars. A blend of dried apricots, dates, and prunes adds natural sweetness and chewy texture, while almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and chia lend crunch, protein, and staying power. Lightly baked to hold together yet soft enough to bite into, these bars make a nourishing on-the-go snack, a post-workout boost, or a thoughtful homemade gift for anyone who loves real, wholesome food.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup whole raw almonds with skins
1/2 cup dried apricots
1/2 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup prunes, pitted
1/4 cup orange juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chia seed
1/4 cup pepitas (raw pumpkin seeds)
1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
METHOD:
Preheat oven to 300°F. Line an 8 × 8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
In a food processor, combine the almonds, apricots, dates, and prunes. Pulse several times until coarsely chopped and sticky.
Add the orange juice and salt. Pulse until the mixture just begins to clump together. Add the chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds; pulse a few more times to evenly incorporate, keeping some texture.
Scoop the mixture into the prepared pan. Place a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap over the top and press firmly and evenly with your palms or a flat spatula to compact the mixture.
Bake for 15 minutes, until slightly firm and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Lift the cooled mixture from the pan using the foil overhang. Cut into 8 bars with a sharp knife. Wrap each bar individually in wax paper or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
YIELD: Makes 8 bars
