Hemp Tahini Energy Bars
Hemp seeds, tahini (sesame seed butter), nuts, fruit and coconut join forces in a chewy, salty-sweet energy bar. These no bake bars are made with wholesome ingredients and are so darn simple to make.Hemp hearts are in this recipe as they are the most nutritionally complete food source in the world, making them a wonderful addition to your healthy eating Superstar hemp seeds have the ideal ratio of omega-6 and omega 3 fatty acids. These days, we eat a ratio of 21:1, when we really need a ratio of 3:1. Luckily for us, hemp seeds contain omega fatty acids in exactly this ratio.They are a rich source of heart-healthy fatty acids, essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulphur, calcium, iron and zinc. They also contain the B-vitamins B1 and B2. B1 is important for our nervous system and B2 actually helps us feel less stressed due to its effect on the hormone cortisol. And hemp seeds are also a good source of the beauty vitamin E. This vitamin has an effect on our skin, hair and nails.In short, you will be hard pressed to find a food that ticks as many nutritional boxes as hemp seeds! Its truly a superfood health infusion. Pair hemp seeds with the other nutritional powerhouse tahini and you have a match made in heaven. Tahini contains all the essential amino acids, making it a high quality protein, plus it is rich in lecithin, vitamin E and calcium. It is easily digestible because its high alkaline mineral content and because of its non-acid nature, tahini is an ideal protein source for people with weak digestive systems, invalids and young children, and is an excellent source of quick energy for active people and athletes.Tahini (aka liquid gold) is made from toasted ground hulled sesame seeds. It's smooth, nutty and rich, with a slightly bitter finish and a mouth feel similar to almond or peanut butter.These nutrient-dense bars have become my favorite snack to prepare. They cover all the bases of my snack requirements: chewy, crunchy, salty, sweet, and nutritious. A great bar before or after a workout, packed with real food ingredients - the perfect plant-based dessert or snack.Customize these bars to your liking by changing out any nut or fruit you like! Pumpkin seeds, hazelnuts, dried pineapple or cherries would also be lovely additions.Whip up a batch in 10 minutes, freeze to harden, and store leftovers in the fridge so they are ready at a moment's notice. Whether it's for a pre- or post-workout energy boost, breakfast on-the-go, or to satisfy that 3 o'clock snack craving, these bars are the golden ticket.
Servings 12
Ingredients
- 1 cup hemp hearts (seeds)
- 1 cup dates soaked 30 minutes, drained, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds or walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup tahini well-stirred
- 1/4 cup almond (or any other nut) butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Sprinkle sea salt
Instructions
- Heat a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add tahini, almond butter, honey and coconut oil. Stir well. Once melted, remove from heat, and add hemp seeds, dates, nuts and vanilla extract into the saucepan and mix well until coated with the melted ingredients.Press dough evenly into a loaf pan (9 x 5” or similar) lined with parchment paper and place in fridge while you melt the chocolate topping.
Chocolate Topping
- Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave at 50% power with 30 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.Once melted spread evenly over chilled base, sprinkle with sea salt and place back in fridge until the chocolate is firm and set. Cut into 10-12 bars or more squares depending on the size you prefer.Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
