Ingredients
1 cup pecans, halved
½ cup pumpkin seeds
½ cup unsweetened protein powder
3 tablespoons chia seeds
3 tablespoons flax seeds
2 tablespoons cacao nibs
⅓ cup raisins
8–10 Medjool dates, pitted
⅓ cup sugar-free or keto-friendly chocolate chips
½ cup creamy cashew butter (or any creamy nut butter)
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional toppings: extra chocolate chips, unsweetened coconut flakes, or pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
- Process Dry Ingredients: Add pecans, pumpkin seeds, protein powder, chia seeds, flax seeds, cacao nibs, raisins, and dates to a food processor. Pulse until chopped and well combined. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine coconut oil, nut butter, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth and pourable. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix Together: Pour the wet mixture over the processed dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined and evenly coated.
- Form Bars: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with the bottom of a glass or jar to create an even layer. Add optional toppings if desired.
- Chill: Place in the refrigerator overnight to set.
- Serve: Cut into 8 bars using a sharp knife. Store in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or freeze individually for longer storage.
Notes
- Portion Sizes: For children or smaller servings, cut the bars into 16 smaller pieces instead of 8.
- Nut Butter Options: Any creamy nut butter works, such as almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter. Ensure it’s smooth for easy mixing.
- Chocolate Options: Use sugar-free chocolate chips for a lower sugar option, or regular dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Storage: Keep the bars in the fridge for up to 10 days, or freeze for up to a month. Individually wrap for convenient grab-and-go snacks.
- Add-ins: You can mix in other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to taste. Avoid sweetened protein powders to maintain the intended flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 min