Healthy Peanut Energy Bars

Submitted by Chef #810882

"Recipe adapted from Eating Well magazine. I have made a few changes to suit my taste and needs. These bars really are easy and delicious!!!! And can really be changed to add any kind of fruit or nut you like... very versatile!! I find the bars hold up much better if they stay refrigerated. Great for a pre-workout snack...! *can add up to 2 cups dried fruit* I have used dried blueberries and raisins."

 

• Ready In: 10mins
• Ingredients: 14
• Yields: 16 bars
• Serves: 16

ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup dry roasted peanuts
• 1⁄2 cup natural almonds (chopped) or 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup raisins or 1 cup other dried fruit
• 2 cups oats
• 1 cup crispy brown rice cereal
• 1 cup puffed wheat cereal
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1⁄4 cup toasted wheat germ
• 1⁄4 cup natural-style chunky peanut butter
• 1⁄4 cup almond butter
• 1⁄2 cup Splenda brown sugar blend
• 1⁄2 cup agave nectar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

directions

1. Coat a 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. combine all dry ingredients including cinnamon.
3. combine and stir peanut butter, almond butter, splenda brown sugar, and agave nectar in large microwaveable bowl.
4. microwave on high until bubbling; about 1-2 minutes. add vanilla and stir until blended.
5. Pour the peanut butter mixture over dry ingredients and stir until coated>.
6. Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Press down firmly. (helps to coat your fingers with cooking spray).
7. Let stand about 1 hour to harden or refrigerate.
8. cut into 16 bars.