Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re making wholesome and energizing Millet and Quinoa Energy Bars. These bars are packed with nutritious ingredients like millet, quinoa, nuts, and seeds, making them perfect for a quick snack or a boost of energy on the go. Let’s dive into this delicious and healthy recipe!

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
  • 1 cup cooked millet (cooled)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your choice)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or chopped dried apricots)
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp flaxseeds (ground or whole)
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (almond butter, peanut butter, or your choice)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • Cook the quinoa and millet according to package instructions. Allow them to cool completely before using in the recipe.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooked millet, rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, chia seeds, flaxseeds, shredded coconut, and pumpkin seeds. Mix well to combine all dry ingredients.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
   • Heat the mixture gently over low heat or in the microwave until it becomes smooth and well combined. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Combine and Mix:
   • Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl.
   • Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the nut butter mixture. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed.
4. Press into a Pan:
   • Line a baking dish or pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
   • Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
   • Use a second piece of parchment paper or foil to press down firmly on the mixture to compact it and smooth the surface.
5. Chill and Set:
   • Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
6. Cut into Bars:
   • Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper or foil.
   • Use a sharp knife to cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
7. Store and Enjoy:
   • Individually wrap the bars in parchment paper or plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks.
   • Store the Millet and Quinoa Energy Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Tips and Variations:

• Customize: Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
• Add Protein: Incorporate a scoop of protein powder into the mixture for an extra protein boost.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter for a nut-free version.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the bars before chilling for a decadent touch.

These Millet and Quinoa Energy Bars are a nutritious and delicious snack option that’s packed with energy-boosting ingredients. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or post-workout fuel, they are sure to satisfy and keep you going throughout the day. Enjoy making and savoring these homemade energy bars!