Trail Mix Bars

Ingredients:

sliced almonds

sesame seeds

pumpkin seeds

finely ground flax seeds

whole flax seeds

hazelnuts

dried cranberries

dried papaya bits

dried mango bits

dried pineapple bits

chocolate chips (a splurge, indeed!)

honey

soy protein powder

coconut oil

Preparation:
1. Combine nuts, seeds, and fruit in food processor, setting aside a small amount of each to add later. Add soy protein powder. Mix until well blended. (Note: ingredients may become chopped during mixing, this is okay.)

2. Add honey to mixture, coninue mixing until combination is thouroughly coated.

3. Add remaining nuts, seeds, and fruit to combination. Continue mixing adding more honey if needed.

4. Coat bottoms and sides of mini-muffin pan with coconut oil. Add trail mix combination to muffin pan, firmly pressing mixture into each cup.

5. Bake at 300 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

6. After cooling, remove bars from muffin pan. Store bars in refrigerator or pantry, separating layers with wax paper.

Outcome:
Those of you who know me knew it wouldn't be too long before I came up with a treat to satisfy my sweet tooth!

I came up with this idea after discovering energy bars in the health food store were a convenient meal sustitute for my diet. Unfortunately, the price of those bars weren't quite as accomodating. So I just came up with my own!

The bars are very delicious and can be customized with any nuts, seeds, and fruits you prefer. I had bought a trail mix containing chocolate chips which greatly added to the taste. Next time I will try them either with a chocolatey substitute or no chocolate at all. Sadly, sugar-filled milk chocolate is a no-no in a cancer-free kitchen!

Husband-approved: Yes

Kid-approved: Yes (with chocolate)

Pet-approved:Yes

Me-approved: Yes

BONUS:

Extended Family-approved: Yes