Nutty Chia Energy Bars

Remember back "in the day" when people would say Chia and you'd immediately think of a Chia Pet? I even used to be called Ch Ch Ch Chia Priya by a childhood friend, referring to that obnoxious Chia Pet commercial. 😂

Now, Chia Seeds have become a household staple around the world for good reasons (here are a few):

• High in fiber to aide in digestion
• High in antioxidants to support skin health
• High in Omega-3s supporting heart health by reducing inflammation in your blood vessels
• High in Calcium to support bones (1 oz makes up 18% of your daily value of calcium)
• High source of plant protein
• High in Zinc which increase your leptin (hunger hormone that regulates your appetite)

Needless to say, I add chia seeds to many daily meals like this Nutty Chia Energy Bar. I combine the nutritional density of chia seeds with protein and health fats from nuts for this satiety and filling snack bar!

Makes: 6 bars

Active Time: 15 minutes

Inactive Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1/3 cup raw walnuts 

6 raw Brazil nuts

1/8 cup pre-soaked GF oats (soaking helps with digestions - soak in filtered water over night or just a few minutes)

2 medjool dates (pits removed and softened)
1 tbsp maca powder (optional but contains nutrients to support Energy)
1 1/2 tbsp chia seeds
1/4 cup sunflower butter
1 tbsp shredded coconut

Directions:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine nuts, dates and soaked (and drained) oats and pulse until well combined (it will be wet due to the wet oats) 
2. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and add remaining ingredients & mix until thick batter forms
3. Spread mixture into a deep tray (I used a bread loaf pan) allowing the dough to be about 1/2 in thick. If your dough is sticky, add a bit of coconut oil to the mixture OR lightly oil the tray before spreading the mixture
4. Freeze for 20 minutes or until they set then transfer them to the refrigerate. They will last in the fridge for one week or the freezer for longer

ENJOY!!