Packed with fiber, heart healthy fats and protein these Mixed Fruit and Nut Energy Bars are the perfect pre-work out fuel or balanced snack!
This week my hubby asked for me to make those “date bars” you made once. For a second I wasn’t quite sure what he was referring to but then I remembered! It was a couple years ago when I was trying to make some healthier DIY energy bars for snacks before working out in the afternoon. I could never quite make it through my work-out in the afternoon without eating something. These bars were perfect to pack in my bag and bring with me to work and eat on the way to the gym. They are also way cheaper to make at home versus buying a pre-made energy bar.
The basic fruit and nut bar recipe is 1 cup dates, 1 cup dried fruit, 1 cup nuts. For these fruit and nut bars I used a combination of dates, craisins, raisins, walnuts, almonds and chia seeds. Depending on what dried fruit and nut you have in you pantry anything could work! So have fun an experiment 🙂
What I love about these bars is that they are the perfect combination of carbohydrates, protein and fat for a pre-work out snack. They aren’t too heavy on the stomach either and are mighty tasty if you ask me or my hubby!
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup craisins
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- In a food processor, add all ingredients.
- Process for 1-2 minutes. (If you prefer larger nut pieces process for closer to 1 minute).
- In a 8×8 baking dish lined with parchment paper add fruit and nut mixture. Press down with hands to evenly spread out mixture.
- Place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to harden. Remove and cut into 16 squares.
- Place in air tight container or zip-lock bag in the fridge.
