HEALTHY, GOOEY, OATY ENERGY BARS

Whether you're on the go, or have time to heat it up and drizzle with honey, this energy bar is sure to be a hit for the entire fam! I know it is in my house! The best part is that there is no sugar, it's gluten free, and all the fruits and nuts I used can be substituted to your liking. It's also delicious on top of some frozen yogurt for a yummy dessert.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup melted coconut oil

3 tablespoons smooth peanut butter (can easily be left out for allergies)

4 tablespoons honey

1/4 cup ground flax seeds

1 1/2 cups apple sauce

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats if necessary)

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup blueberries (use any seasonal berry)

1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (I used sprouted seeds from Costco)

1/4 cup sunflower seeds

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F and spray pan generously with coconut oil spray (Trader Joe's has a great one) 

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the coconut oil, peanut butter, and honeyand stir until melted. Watch this closely because it can easily burn.

In a large bowl, combine the oats with the dried fruit, seeds, cinnamon, ground flax seeds, salt, apple sauce, and vanilla. Add the liquid mixture and stir until well combined. 

Transfer the mixture to the baking pan and press with your hands to create an even surface. 

Bake until golden, about 20 minutes. Cool completely in pan. Lift out and cut into 12 pieces.