Peanut Butter Chocolate Energy Bars

Energy bars come in all flavors, textures, shapes, and sizes. I frequently buy vegan energy bars, and I normally buy chocolate peanut butter or mint chocolate flavor. Instead of buying them, this time I decided to make some myself.

This recipe only requires six ingredients. One of the ingredients in the mixture is flaxseed. There are numerous studies on the health benefits of flaxseeds.  Flaxseeds contain protein and essential amino acids. They may also help prevent heart disease, and they contain soluble fiber, which may promote weight loss by reducing hunger and decreasing cravings.

The prep time is quick and easy, and after an hour in the freezer they are ready to enjoy or share!  

Rich, creamy, energizing, satisfying, and only six ingredients!

Author: The Sensible Vegan
Recipe Type: Snack
Cuisine: Vegan
Serving: 12

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pitted dates
• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
• 3 tbsps unsweetened coconut chips
• 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
  
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds
• 3 tbsps semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions   

1. Pulse dates in a food processor until they are ground. (Optional: Soak them  in water for 10-15 min. to soften them before pulsing.) 
2. Add peanut butter, oats, flaxseeds, and coconut to the processor and blend with the dates until the mixture is well blended and smooth like the above photo. 
3. Remove from the processor and place in a 9 x 9 inch baking dish.
4. Add in chocolate chips, distribute evenly into mixture with hands, and press into baking dish as shown above.
   
5. Allow to set in the freezer for one hour.
6. Remove from freezer and enjoy!
   

Nutrition Information

Serving size: One bar  Calories: 271  Fat:  17g
Sat Fat: 4.6g  Carbohydrates: 24g   Sugar: 10g    Sodium: 98mg 
Fiber: 5g  Protein: 9g

​Please let me know how you like this recipe. I'd love to hear from you and see your variation of the recipe as well! Post your recipe photos #thesensiblevegan. Thank you!