Raw Cacao, Pistachio & Goji Energy Bars [Vegan + Gluten Free]

Do you find your energy fading around the same time during the day? Maybe it's that mid-morning fatigue once the coffee wears off, or the 3-o'clock slump? Instead of reaching for another coffee or that candy bar sitting on the staff room table, grab one of these raw energy bars for the perfect pick-me-up! Using just a handful of raw ingredients, they are loaded with healthy carbs and fats to help power you through a long day. They are easy to make, require no baking, freeze well, and are vegan and gluten free!! How much better can you get!?



Makes about 12, 2x2-inch bars

You will need:

• 1 cup soaked, pitted medjool dates
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tbsp warm water

• 4 tbsp dry amaranth
• 1/4 cup shelled, unsalted raw pistachios
• 3 tbsp goji berries

Directions:

First, pop your amaranth.  Heat a large sauce pan that has a lid over high heat so the bottom becomes extremely hot. You'll know the pan is hot enough when a few drops of water dance around the bottom. 

Using one tablespoon at a time, pour your amaranth into the pan and immediately cover with the lid. Shake the amaranth around the pan, and it will begin to pop. It's important that you pour the amaranth into a large mixing bowl as soon as it finishes popping, because it will start to burn if you leave it in the pan. Repeat with 3 more tablespoons of the amaranth. 

Place the pistachios and goji berries in the large bowl with the amaranth and mix with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated.

Then, place the dates, chia seeds, cacao powder, maple syrup, and water in your food processor and process until a thick paste forms. Wet your hands with warm water so the paste doesn't stick, and transfer to the large mixing bowl with the amaranth, pistachios, and goji's. Begin to incorporate and work the mixture with your hands, like you are kneading dough, until a relatively solid ball forms.

Line a tray with parchment paper and place the "dough" onto it. Press down firmly to create a thin square shape, about 1/2 inch thick. Place in your freezer for about 30 minutes to set. Remove from the freezer and cut your bars into whatever size you like!! 

This recipe can easily be doubled to make a larger batch, and the bars freeze well to maintain freshness. They will also keep in the fridge for a couple weeks.

Enjoy! :)