Classic No-Bake Dry Fruit Protein Bars

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.