Homemade gluten-free energy bars

Here's a simple recipe for homemade gluten-free energy bars:

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten-free oats
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• 1/4 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped if large
• 1/4 cup gluten-free rice cereal or puffed quinoa

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond butter, peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons flaxseeds
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (use gluten-free if necessary)

Instructions:

1. Prepare a Pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and rice cereal or puffed quinoa. If using chia seeds or flaxseeds, add them here as well. Mix everything together.

3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a small saucepan, gently heat the nut butter and honey or maple syrup over low heat. Stir until they are well combined and become a smooth mixture. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well until everything is evenly coated.

5. Add Optional Ingredients: If using chocolate chips, allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding them to avoid melting. Stir in the chocolate chips or any other optional add-ins.

6. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.

7. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours or until the mixture is firm.

8. Cut into Bars: Once the mixture is firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block of bars out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into bars of your desired size.

9. Store: Individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for longer shelf life or at room temperature for shorter periods.

These homemade gluten-free energy bars are perfect for quick snacks, post-workout refueling, or anytime you need an energy boost. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Enjoy!