Homemade Energy Bars with Dates, Oatmeal, and Dark Chocolate

Homemade Energy Bars with Dates, Oatmeal, and Dark Chocolate

Ingredients:

200g dates, pitted

150g oatmeal

50g peanuts

40g raisins

30g sunflower seeds

30g pumpkin seeds

1 tbsp sesame seeds

1 tbsp honey

100g dark chocolate

Directions:

1. Prepare Dates:

Place the pitted dates in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for 15 minutes to soften.

2. Grind Oatmeal:

In a food processor, grind the oatmeal into a fine powder.

3. Process Dates:

After 15 minutes, drain the dates and grind them in the food processor until they form a soft paste.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the ground oatmeal, raisins, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds. Mix well.

5. Add Wet Ingredients:

Add the date paste and honey to the dry ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

6. Melt Chocolate:

Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.

7. Combine:

Pour the melted chocolate into the mixture and mix well.

8. Shape:

Transfer the mixture to a lined baking dish or mold. Press down firmly to create an even layer. Optionally, decorate the top with additional pumpkin seeds.

9. Chill:

Place the dish in the fridge and let it cool for 1 hour.

10. Cut:

Once set, carefully cut the mixture into bars or bite-sized pieces using a large knife.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy these bars as a pre-workout snack for an energy boost.

Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a mid-afternoon treat.

Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Cooking Tips:

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Ensure the dates are fully softened before processing to achieve a smooth paste.

Use a sharp knife to cut the bars cleanly after chilling.

For a nut-free version, replace peanuts with additional seeds or dried fruit.

Nutritional Benefits:

Dates: High in fiber, aiding in digestion and providing natural sweetness.

Oatmeal: A great source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber.

Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants and beneficial for heart health.

Dietary Information:

These bars are vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (Per Bar):

Calories: 250 kcal

Carbohydrates: 35g

Protein: 6g

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 4g

Storage:

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before eating.