Natural Protein Bars

Snack Smart with These Simple, No-Protein Energy Bars.

Prep time: 30 min

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 10-12 bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 15 dates

• 1/4 cup chia seeds or flax seeds

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2-4 tablespoons water (if needed to bind)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dates by putting them in a bowl with water and let sit for at least 15 minutes to soften.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips.

3. Add in the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.

4. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you can easily stir and it sticks together.

5. Press the mixture into a lined 8x8-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.

6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

7. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.