1. **Prepare the baking pan:**
– Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
2. **Chop the nuts and dried fruits:**
– Roughly chop the nuts and dried fruits into smaller pieces. You can use a knife or a food processor for this step. If using a food processor, pulse a few times until coarsely chopped. Be careful not to over-process; you want small chunks, not a paste.
3. **Mix the dry ingredients:**
– In a large bowl, combine the chopped nuts, dried fruits, rolled oats, shredded coconut (if using), cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. **Prepare the wet ingredients:**
– In a small saucepan, heat the honey or maple syrup and nut butter over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine and mix:**
– Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated. If adding chocolate chips or other add-ins like chia seeds or flaxseeds, fold them in now.
6. **Press into the pan:**
– Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Make sure it’s tightly packed to help the bars hold their shape.
7. **Chill and set:**
– Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
8. **Cut and store:**
– Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and transfer it to a cutting board. Cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
9. **Serve:**
– Enjoy these energy bars as a quick snack, a post-workout treat, or a healthy breakfast on the go!
### Tips:
– **Storage:** Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, separate the bars with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
– **Customizable:** Feel free to customize the bars with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and add-ins like seeds, chocolate chips, or coconut.
– **Nut-Free Option:** For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter and replace the nuts with seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Enjoy your **Nut and Dried Fruit Energy Bars**—a tasty, nutritious snack that provides a great boost of energy anytime you need it!
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