Making your own dry fruit protein bars is a fantastic idea for a healthy and customizable snack! Most recipes are 'no-bake' and rely on dates as a natural sweetener and binder. This recipe is a great starting point and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. It's perfect for meal prep and provides a nutritious, energy-packed snack for busy days.
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Lightly toast your nuts and seeds in a dry pan over low heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
Add the pitted dates to a food processor. Process until they form a sticky ball or thick paste. If the dates are very dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help them process smoothly.
Add the toasted nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits to the food processor. If using, add protein powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Pulse and process until the mixture is well combined and starts to clump together. Add a teaspoon of water or a tablespoon of nut butter at a time if the mixture is too dry.
Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or the back of your hand.
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or ideally overnight) to allow the bars to firm up.
Lift the parchment paper to remove the block from the pan. Cut into desired bar sizes using a sharp knife.
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
For a vegan option, ensure you use plant-based protein powder.
Experiment with different dried fruits for varied flavors and textures.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling for added flavor.
Add puffed rice cereal or crushed whole-grain crackers for extra crunch.
If you're short on time, use pre-made trail mix and chop it instead of measuring individual nuts and dried fruits.
Can I use a different binder instead of dates?
Yes, you can use nut butters like almond, peanut, or cashew butter as an alternative binder.
How long can I store these protein bars?
You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, you can substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, chia, and flax seeds, and use seed butter like tahini.
Can I add chocolate to these bars?
Absolutely! You can add cocoa powder to the mixture or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling.
Do I need to toast the nuts and seeds?
Toasting is optional but recommended as it enhances the flavor of the nuts and seeds.
Explore Iorjia - Good Food! Find Awesome meals, healthy options, tasty snacks & refreshing drinks.
