Are you tired of boring, processed snacks that leave you feeling unsatisfied and guilty? Get ready to revolutionize your nutrition with these incredible Healthy Fruit Nut Seed Bars that pack a powerful punch of flavor, energy, and wholesome goodness! In just 50 minutes, you'll create a batch of delectable bars that are not just a snack, but a nutritional powerhouse designed to fuel your body and delight your taste buds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1/2 cup seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)
- 1 cup dried fruit (dates, apricots)
- 1/2 cup nut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Toast the mixed nuts and seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their flavor and create a more aromatic base for the bars.
- Finely chop the dried fruits into small pieces. If the dates are particularly sticky, lightly coat your knife with cooking spray to make chopping easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted nuts, seeds, and chopped dried fruits. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the nut butter and honey together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add vanilla extract to the warm nut butter and honey mixture, stirring to incorporate completely.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well coated and bound together.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The cooling process helps the bars set and become firm.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan, then cut into 10 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Toast your nuts and seeds carefully: The key to amazing flavor is gentle toasting. Watch them closely and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Use a sharp knife when chopping dried fruits, and consider spraying the blade with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly in the pan to ensure compact, well-structured bars that hold together perfectly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain their shape.
- Experiment with different nut and seed combinations to find your perfect blend. Each variation can create a unique taste experience!
- For extra nutrition, consider adding a sprinkle of chia seeds or a dash of cinnamon to boost flavor and health benefits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
