These bars don’t take advantage of the unique gelling properties of chia, but do take advantage of its nutrition! (Think: fibre, omega-3s and calcium, among other nutrients) To make these vegan, use another liquid sweetener, like agave nectar or corn syrup (maple syrup may be too thin). To make these gluten-free, be sure to purchase certified gluten-free (“pure”) oats.
Ingredients:
- * 3 cup (750 ml) quick oat
- * 1 cup (250 ml) unsweetened shredded coconut
- * 3/4 cup (185 ml) chopped almond
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) hemp heart
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) chia seed
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) dried fruit (cranberries, apricot, raisin, etc,
- chopped into small piece if needed)
- * 1/4 cup (60 ml) ground flaxseed
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) honey
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) applesauce
- * 3/4 cup (185 ml) almond butter
- * 1/2 cup (125 ml) coconut oil, melted
- * 1 1/2 tsp (7 ml) vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Line a 8 x 8” baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring that the parchment paper hangs over the sides.
- In a large bowl, mix together oats, shredded coconut, almonds, hemp hearts, chia seeds, dried fruit and flax. In a medium bowl, stir together honey, applesauce, almond butter, coconut oil and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well, using your hands if needed.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Chill in refrigerator or freezer until firm. Use the parchment paper to lift the squares out of the baking dish. Cut into bars or squares and serve.
