I created this recipe for my daughter so that she can snack and get good nutrition for optimum function for swimming. Healthy fats and proteins are necessary for proper brain function. Healthy fats serve three main functions: provide energy. Some types of vitamins rely on fat for absorption and storage. Vitamins A, D, E and K, called fat-soluble vitamins, cannot function without adequate daily fat intake. These vitamins are essential parts of your daily diet. Fat cells, stored in adipose tissue, insulate your body and help sustain a normal core body temperature. So in moderation, healthy fats are imperative.
Almond Butter and Maple Bars with Oats
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
These Almond Butter and Maple Bars with Oats are a nutritious and delicious snack, perfect for boosting healthy fats and improving brain function.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of pitted Medjool dates
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Justin’s maple almond butter
- 1.5 cups toasted gluten free rolled oats (I used Bob’s Redmill)
- 1/4 cup of sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overlaps the sides for easy removal later.
- Add the pitted Medjool dates to your food processor and blend until they form a sticky paste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the date paste, maple syrup, and Justin’s maple almond butter. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the toasted gluten-free rolled oats, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly until the oats and seeds are evenly coated with the date and almond butter mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with a spatula or your hands to ensure it holds together.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars as desired.
Notes
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. You can substitute sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds for a different flavor. These bars are great for a quick energy boost before or after workouts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 22 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute almond butter with another nut or seed butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and nutritional profile.
What type of oats should I use for the Almond Butter and Maple Bars?
Use rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can be used but may result in a softer bar.
How do I ensure the bars hold together well after baking?
Make sure to pack the mixture tightly into the pan before baking, and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them to help them firm up.
