These simple, five-ingredient energy bars are inspired by LÄRABAR’s Cherry Pie flavor snack bars and take even less time to make than it would to drive to the store to buy them.
Dried tart cherries pack a puckery punch in terms of both flavor and energy, and the almonds, flax and chia seeds add healthy fats, protein and fiber. You can cut them to whatever size suits your fancy — a bite-sized pick-me-up, a medium sized school snack or a larger bar to fuel that challenging hike or long commute. They last a couple weeks in the fridge and can just be tossed into a reusable snack bag when taking them on the go.
Fruits and nuts are ground in a food processor for this easy recipe, but the specific ingredients are certainly adaptable. Feel free to try different dried fruits, nuts or seeds for a variety of flavor combinations — mango cashew, perhaps, or apple cinnamon walnut. The chia seeds help bind the bars, so I do recommend including them.
Laura Bars
Makes 12 to 20 bars, depending on size
INGREDIENTS
1 cup dried tart cherries
2/3 cup dried pitted dates
1 cup whole raw almonds
¼ cup chia seeds
¼ cup whole flax seeds
1 tablespoon water, or more as needed
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DIRECTIONS
Place all the ingredients in a food processor and process for 1 to 2 minutes, until the ingredients form a coarse meal that sticks together when pinched between your fingers. If the mixture is too dry to stick together, add another tablespoon of water and pulse again.
Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press firmly to compact it evenly. Refrigerate until firm, then slice into 12 to 20 bars, depending on desired portion size. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for longer storage.
Registered dietitian and food writer Laura McLively is the author of “The Berkeley Bowl Cookbook.” Follow her at @myberkeleybowl and www.lauramclively.com.
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