Oat and Date Energy Bars with Chocolate and Almonds

Ingredients:

• 150g oat flakes (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 200g pitted dates (about 1 cup)
• 30g raisins (about 2 tablespoons)
• 20g honey (about 1 tablespoon)
• 50g chopped almonds (about 1/4 cup)
• 30g sesame seeds (about 2 tablespoons)
• 100g dark chocolate (about 3.5 ounces)
• Almonds for garnish
• Boiling water (to soak dates)

Directions:

1. Prepare the oats and dates:

Pulse 150g oat flakes until smooth using a blender or food processor.

Remove the seeds from 200g dates.

Place the dates in a bowl, pour boiling water over them and let them soak for 10 minutes until they are soft.

Drain the dates using a strainer and add them to the ground oats.

2. Mix the oats and dates mixture:

In a blender or food processor, place the soaked dates with the ground oats and blend until smooth.

3. Prepare the toppings:

Pour the oats and dates mixture into a bowl.

Add 30g of raisins, 20g of honey, and 50g of chopped almonds to the mixture.

Add 30g of sesame seeds and mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Form the bars:

Take half of the mixture and press it into a rectangular mold or tray, pressing it evenly.

With the remaining mixture, fill a 6cm silicone mold (or any small mold you prefer), and press it firmly.

5. Melt the chocolate:

Chop 100g of dark chocolate into small pieces.

Melt the chocolate in the microwave for 30 seconds, stirring in between until completely melted.

6. Add the chocolate topping:

Pour the melted chocolate over the bars in the rectangular and smaller round molds, spreading evenly over the surface.

Garnish with whole or chopped almonds for extra crunch.

7. Chill the bars:

Refrigerate the bars for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until fully cooked.

8. Serve:

Once cooled and firm, remove the bars from the mold, cut into desired portions, and enjoy!

Serving suggestions:

Enjoy as a quick snack or for a pre- or post-workout energy boost.

With a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.

Serve as a healthy dessert option.

Place in lunch boxes for a healthy on-the-go snack.

Sprinkle with coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking tips:

Soften the dates well: Make sure to soak the dates well in boiling water to ensure they blend easily with the oats.
Press the batter: Press the batter firmly into the molds to ensure the bars hold their shape.
Customize the nuts: You can substitute other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews for the almonds.
Add flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding a little cinnamon or vanilla extract to the batter.

Nutritional benefits:

Dates: Rich in fiber and natural sugars, they provide a quick source of energy and are packed with essential minerals like potassium.
Oats: High in fiber and nutrients, oats are good for digestive health and provide a steady release of energy.
Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, almonds add crunch and nutritional value.
Dark chocolate: A good source of antioxidants and a satisfying way to add indulgence.