Homemade Vegan Protein Bars

Whether you want a quick snack before heading to the gym or a mid-morning snack you can have at your desk with a cup of tea, these vegan protein bars are ideal! Made with seeds, nuts and goji berries, they are packed with goodness. Even better, the bars have a delicious drizzle of dark chocolate over the top, which adds just the right touch of sweetness.

Prep time: 15 mins + 60 mins chilling time Total time: 15 mins + 60 mins chilling time Serves: 8 Dietary preferences: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

Ingredients:

2 tbsp chia seeds

4 tbsp flax seeds

120g roasted almonds

20g sunflower seeds

2 tbsp goji berries

40g desiccated coconut

pinch of sea salt

30g unflavoured or vanilla vegan protein powder (optional)

6 Medjool dates, pitted 

110g tahini

50g dark chocolate, melted. 

Method:

Place the Medjool dates into a small bowl and cover with hot water. Set aside for 15 minutes to soak and then drain well.

Meanwhile, place the chia seeds, flax seeds, almonds, sunflower seeds, goji berries, coconut, sea salt and protein powder, if using, in a food processor and process into a flour.

Add the Medjool dates and tahini and process for 2-3 minutes until well combined. This will allow the natural oils from the nuts to be released.

The mixture should be a little sticky. Line a slice tin with baking paper.

Using wet hands, press the mixture evenly into the tin and refrigerate for 45 - 60 minutes or until firm. 

Remove the mixture from the tray and cut into 10 even bars.

Using a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars.

Return the bars to the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to set. 

Serve the Vegan Protein Bars or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy!