Healthy Date Bars: A Simple and Nutritious Energy Snack

Homemade energy bars are an excellent solution for a healthy and nutritious snack. The recipe below combines juicy dates with a variety of nuts and seeds, creating a delicious and nutrient-rich treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup high-quality dates (pitted and soaked in warm water)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup pistachios
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Start by soaking the dates in warm water for about two hours. Once softened, blend them into a smooth and uniform paste. This step will give the bars a soft texture and natural sweetness.

Step 2: Toasting and Preparing the Base

Toast the rolled oats over low to medium heat for 1-2 minutes, then grind them into a fine powder. Next, toast the almonds, walnuts, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds until they are fragrant and crunchy. Finally, add the shredded coconut and toast for an additional minute. This process enhances the flavors and improves the texture.

Step 3: Cooking and Mixing

In a non-stick saucepan, cook the date paste over low heat for about 5-10 minutes. Add the toasted nuts, honey, ground cardamom, and salt. Mix well until you achieve a uniform mixture. This step combines all the flavors into a perfect base for your bars.

Step 4: Shaping and Freezing

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Freeze for 1-2 hours until firm, then cut into thick slices.

Storage Tips

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can be kept for up to a month.
• Perfect for on-the-go snacking—great for hikes or as an office snack!

Nutritional Value

These date bars are rich in protein, free from processed sugars, packed with energy, and loaded with healthy fats. They serve as an excellent alternative to commercial snacks, providing sustained energy while contributing to a balanced diet.These energy bars are a delicious and healthy way to maintain high energy levels throughout the day. They are easy to prepare, customizable, and make a perfect solution for anyone looking for a nutritious snack! Enjoy! 🌿🥜