Renewable Energy, Power Bites Part II
Andrea Potischman
Jul 4, 2017
Post-holiday, an energy power bite may be just what we all need. I read an article recently referring to trendy, nutrient-packed energy bars and bites referred to as “renewable energy.” I like that: it’s catchy and on point. My previous blog about Protein Power Bites was so popular, that I felt a follow-up was due, especially during summer, when kids are home and moms (and dads) who don’t send their kids to sleep-away camp will be desperately searching for more energy.
Unlike my previous recipes for power bites, these energy power bites cut into squares can almost pass for a healthy brownie-like treat, or at least I would like to think so. (And they, unlike a brownie, do not need to be baked.) They have great texture and just the right amount of sweetness. Any combination of chia, flax and hemp seeds help pack a nutritious punch into these bite size easy-to-make, energy bites.
Renewable Energy, Power Bites Part II
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil , melted and cooled, plus more for the pan
- 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, grated
- 9 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup almond butter (any nut butter works)
- 3 tablespoons ground chia seeds, flax, chia and/or hemp seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons ground almond flour
- 4 tablespoons oatmeal, ground
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
- Flaky sea salt
Directions:
- Line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper allowing an overhang on the sides. Melt a little coconut oil and, using a pastry brush, lightly coat the parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Place the dates in a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to sit for 10 minutes to soften. Drain the dates and set aside.
- In the bowl of a kitchen mixer such as a Cusinart fitted with a metal attachment, add the coconut oil, dates and almond butter. Pulse until the ingredients come together. Add the ground flaxseed, ground chia seed, ground hemp seed, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla, pulse to incorporate. Add the almond flour, ground oatmeal, grated chocolate, cocoa powder, and shredded coconut and pulse to mix.
- Using your hands, press the mixture into the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 1 hour.
- To serve, lift the parchment paper from the pan and place on a cutting board. Slice into 16 squares and sprinkle with flaked sea salt. Note: If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these squares can be kept for up to 2 week
I have taste tested these and they are amazing!!
Thank you Tracy 🙂