Homemade Energy Bar Recipe

Energy bars take up almost as much space on the isles of grocery stores and gas stations as candy bars. They provide a quick fix of calories for people on the go, or the athlete who needs extra fuel. The bars are typically high in protein, though many contain high amounts of corn syrup and sugars as well. Energy Bars come with names like "Splendor Berry," "Cocoa Supreme," and "Peanut Surprise." But these products contain more "surprise" and less natural ingredients like peanuts, cocoa, or berries. In fact, the modern energy bar is such a potent lab development of artificial sweeteners and designer whey that the actual product barely resembles or tastes like anything that could come out of the ground...

Which is why you should make your own energy bars. Natural, organic, high protein energy bars. And this is a recipe for one of the best.

Ingredients

0.25 cup sesame seed meal0.25 cup almond butter0.25 cup coconut oil (can be found at health food store or higher quality grocery stores)0.5 cup almonds (chopped or slivered)0.5 cup pecans0.5 cup dried blueberries0.25 shredded coconut (unsweetened)0.5 teaspoon natural honey1 tsp pure vanilla extract0.25 teaspoon saltInstructions

Toast nuts and shredded coconut on a baking sheet. During baking, give the sheet a good shake occasionally to flip shreds for a more even toast. Blend the mixture in a food processor until ingredients are thoroughly chopped and pulpy.

Microwave the almond butter and coconut oil together for about 30 seconds. Stir until the mixture becomes gooey and smooth. Mix the honey, salt, and pure vanilla extract into the almond butter/coconut oil. Fold the sesame seed meal and nut mixture into the "goo" and mix vigorously. Add the blueberries, and keep mixing vigorously.

Flatten the mixture into a 4 x 8 bread or loaf pan. Refrigerate for thirty minutes. The mixture should be thick, but not brittle. Cut into 6 bars, or for kicks, slice up into "cookie cutter" shapes like stars and hearts for the kids.

The great thing about these energy bars is that they are naturally low in carbohydrates. Yet, they still provide that calorie kick as well as healthy nuts and fats associated with a high protein diet. It's perfect for the carb counter who's looking for a boost of energy without overloading on sugar. If this is up your alley, check out these healthy nut recipes for more high protein options.

Mark Sisson is a former professional triathlete who runs a popular health and nutrition blog, Mark's Daily Apple. Check it out for more great articles and information on the Primal Blueprint, a revolutionary health plan using the principles of human evolution as the basis for modern, high protein, healthy living.