Clean Energy Bars

 

This recipe is courtesy of Alejandro Junger, M.D. Dr. Junger is the founder of the Clean Program and author of the bestsellers Clean and Clean Gut.

It’s difficult to find wholesome, nutritious energy bars in stores. They are often filled with added sugars and unnecessary unhealthy ingredients. By making your own you can stick with ingredients you know are good for you. In addition, you save money and avoid extra trash from wrappers and boxes. Use the recipe below to fuel your daily adventures:

 

Ingredients:

¼ cup of raw pumpkin seeds

¼ cup raw sunflower seeds

11/2 cups unsalted almond butter

½ cup coconut nectar

4 Medjool dates, cut into small chunks

2 tablespoons chia seeds

¼ cup raw hemp seeds

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons mesquite meal

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Heat the oven to 350 degrees and dry roast the pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and pistachios for about ten minutes or until golden brown. (You can leave them raw if you prefer.)

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients until well mixed. Line a 9 x 11-inch baking dish with parchment paper, then press the mixture into the dish, compacting it to form a solid layer about 1/2 –inch thick. Score the surface into 2 x2-inch bars, then place the dish into the fridge for the bars to set. After about 30 minute, remove them from fridge and cut into squares.  Enjoy!