Almond, vanilla, and coconut health bars

Incredibly good protein bars, made with simple, natural, and healthy ingredients

Credit: Nancy Bordeleau

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup almond butter (natural peanut butter is also an option)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/3 cup dates
• 1 tablespoon liquid vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup vanilla protein powder (I love the vegan Metagenics one)
• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons 85% dark chocolate chunks, crushed
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Optional: ¼ cup unsweetened dried fruit, pecans, walnuts, or chopped almonds for the topping.

Credit: Nancy Bordeleau

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat the peanut butter, coconut oil, dates, and vanilla in a saucepan over low heat.
2. Mix together until well combined, then remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl. Mash the dates thoroughly into a puree.
3. Stir in the protein powder until smooth, then add the oats, chia seeds, almond milk, and shredded coconut.
4. Pour the homogeneous mixture into an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper, or shape it by hand on a tray covered with parchment paper.
5. Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a small saucepan and place over low heat until the mixture is melted.
6. Drizzle over the top of the bars.
7. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 hour before cutting into 10 bars or 10 squares.
8. Store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Enjoy! Health is a lifestyle!