Walnut and Chocolate Chip "Lara Bars

M is for Mock Lara Bars.

Lara Bars are a healthier alternative for snacks that are portable, found in most grocery stores, not to mention relatively inexpensive.  But why buy them when you can make them yourself, not to mention add in whatever ingredients you want.


Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
2 1/2 cups rice cereal
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup almond butter
1/3 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

1. Soak dates in water for at least 8 hours.  Drain water and cut open to remove pits (if needed).
2. Line 8 x 8 inch pan with parchment paper.
3. Place dates in food processor and pulse until finely chopped and pureed.  
4. In small bowl, add in pureed dates, rice cereal, flaxseed, ground cinnamon and mix until well blended.
5. In small saucepan, mix almond butter and honey over low to medium heat until blended.  Remove from heat and add in vanilla extract.
6. Mix the almond mixture with the date puree mixture until well combined.  Stir in chocolate chips.  
7. Spread the mixture out in the 8 x 8 pan and press firmly to pack the mixture into the pan.
8. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
9. Cut into bars and either wrap individually or place squares of parchment paper between each bar.
10. Keep the bars in the refrigerator until ready to be eaten.

Optional Ingredients

• Chopped walnuts and chocolate chips may be substituted for any other type of nut and or sweetened food, such as white chocolate chips, shredded coconut.
• Almond butter may be substituted for peanut butter or sunbutter.

What is your favorite Lara Bar flavor?