Power Bars: Must-Have After-School Snack

September means back to school and that means hungry kids! I know that my babes come home from a full day of school starving.

This after school treat is great for the kids as well as for YOU. They’re also great for hikes, trips or after dinner. I added some toasted almonds and sunflower seeds, but you can choose any nut or seed to add. I also threw in my staple—raisins—but any dried fruit will do. If you want even more of a power punch, throw in some gluten- or dairy-free chocolate chips. I added raw chocolate (cacao). 

Ingredients:

1 cup crunchy peanut butter (or any nut butter will do)

1/3 cup brown rice syrup

1/3 cup maple syrup

1 ¼ cups crispy brown rice cereal

½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

¾ ground flax seeds

Directions:

In a medium pot, stir together peanut butter, brown rice syrup and maple syrup over low heat.

After 2 to 3 minutes, remove from heat and set aside.

In a bowl, combine rice cereal, nuts and seeds (if desired), coconut and ground flaxseed. Add dry ingredients to peanut butter mixture. Combine.

In a 8-by-8-inch baking dish, spoon in batter and press evenly. Put in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove and cut into squares. Store in air-tight container.

Makes about 28 bars. 

Do you have a favorite after school snack? Please share your comment below.

Lisa Consiglio Ryan is a Certified Health and Nutrition Coach for busy, active women and their families. Areas of expertise include weight loss, stress management, detox programs, and special diets such as vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Services include private consulting and group seminars.

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