Goji Cacao Energy Bars - Recipe

I found this recipe in Delicious Living and just had to try it, since I'm a sucker for granola bars! This is such a yummy granola bar, not too sweet and packed full of highly nutritious foods. Another plus...it's raw, vegan, gluten-free, fast and easy - and that scores high on a busy mama's check list!

~Enjoy!

Goji Cacao Energy Bars:
(1) cup raw almonds
(1) cup packed dates
1/4 tsp sea salt
3 tbs goji berries
2 tbs raw cacao nibs
1 tsp vanilla extract

Grind raw almonds to a powder in blender. Dump into separate bowl. Blend dates in blender into a "paste". Add date paste to almond powder, and add in salt and mix. Add in goji berries, cacao nibs and vanilla. Mix well (with your hands is best!). Press evenly into a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Refrigerate for about 1 hour before serving. Cut into bars, or break up into pieces. Perfect alone, or added to yogurt!

Things to think about....
"Arguably among the most potent superfoods known, the goji berry offers an exceptional balance of daily macronutrients: containing carbohydrates, high-quality protein, healthy fat, and soluble fiber. The goji’s solid plant-based protein is packed with 18 amino acids -- including all 8 essential amino acids – which is 10% of the fruits composition. Also full of free-radical-devouring antioxidants, goji berries have been historically used to support the immune system and longevity. Rich in vitamin A and a good source of vitamin C, these berries additionally possess over 20 trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus, riboflavin (B2), vitamin E, and carotenoids which include beta-carotene. And to put things in perspective on just how powerful the little goji berry is, ounce per ounce it contains more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans or spinach. Goji berries are a truly remarkable food."


"With their crunchy texture and intense flavor, cacao nibs are healthy, gourmet, and a delicious addition to all kinds of treats. From adding them into a brownie batter, sprinkling on ice cream, or even just tossing into a trail mix, there is virtually no wrong way to add more of this “real chocolate” into your life. Plus, with cacao’s soaring levels of antioxidants, and trace minerals like magnesium and iron, you can feel good in every way about enjoying this chocolatey superfood."