fuit & nut bars

When you are looking for a little 'pick me up' in the middle of the day or a quick morning snack, these homemade fruit and nut bars are the way to go.

 

What  you need:

- 2 cups dried and pitted dates

- 1 cup dried fruit & nut mix (salted or non salted; up to you)

*Note: this will work with or without a food processor*  
First off take about 2 cups of dried and pitted dates, put them in the microwave for 30 seconds. (You want to warm them so they are easy to work with)
You then either want to put them in the food processor, and pulse, or mash with a potato masher (don't be afraid to use your *CLEAN* hands to break up and mash even more)
 
Once the dates are mixed and soften you can then add the good stuff...
 

ANY DRIED FRUIT & NUT MIX YOUR HEART DESIRES  

 

[I usually buy a unsalted fruit & nut mix from the bulk section of the grocery store]

*mango, raisons, peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds* 

You can technically add as much of the extras as you would like, however I would keep it to about 1 cup of fruit & nut mix to 2 cups of dates. Again, don't be afraid to get in there and mix this part with your *CLEAN* hands.

*Note: if you choose you can throw in all ingredients (2 cups of dates, and 1 cup of fruit & nut mix) into a food processor. The consistency and outcome will look very different than what is seen below, but the product is essentially the same.

Once all the ingredients is mixed (via hand or processor) you want to put the mix into a container (with a lid) that is lined with parchment paper, push down to form a flat and level layer. Then cover and place in fridge for 1 hour to chill.

After an hour take out of the fridge, and let stand - warming to room temperature. Once the bars have warmed a little cut, eat, & enjoy!

 

xo

K.