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Nutty Energy Bars with Dates and Cranberries finished dish

Nutty Energy Bars with Dates and Cranberries

Recipe card for Nutty Energy Bars with Dates and Cranberries.
Course: Dessert

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 75g (1/2 cup / 2.6 oz) almonds
  • 50g (1/2 cup / 1.8 oz) walnuts
  • 50g (1/2 cup / 1.8 oz) pumpkin seeds
  • 250g (1 and 2/3 cups / 8.8 oz) dates, pitted
  • 100g (1/3 cup / 3.5 oz) peanut butter
  • 40g (1/4 cup / 1.4 oz) dried cranberries
  • 1 pinch of salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare the Nuts and Seeds: Start by toasting the almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and toast for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn them.
  2. Once toasted, transfer the nuts and seeds to a plate to cool for a few minutes.
  3. Blend the Dates: In a food processor, add the pitted dates. Process for about 1-2 minutes until the dates break down and form a sticky paste. If your dates are a bit dry, you can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before blending.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the toasted almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds to the food processor with the date paste. Pulse a few times to break up the nuts, but leave some texture for a nice crunch.
  5. Next, add the peanut butter, dried cranberries, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Process everything together until the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold together when pressed.
  6. Form the Bars: Line an 8x8-inch baking pan or a similar-sized container with parchment paper.
  7. Transfer the nut and date mixture into the pan, pressing it down firmly into an even layer. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure it's packed tightly.
  8. Chill the Mixture: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to allow the bars to set. This will help them hold their shape when cut.
  9. Cut and Serve: Once chilled and firm, remove the block of nutty goodness from the pan by lifting the parchment paper.
  10. Use a sharp knife to cut it into bars or squares, depending on your preferred size.
  11. Store: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 3 months.

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