Homemade Almond Butter and Honey Protein Bars: A Delicious Back-to-School Pick-Me-Up

Posted on : September 17th, 2024

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The hustle and bustle of back-to-school season is in full swing, and while the excitement of new school supplies, classrooms, and activities fills the air, it’s not long before the initial adrenaline rush gives way to the post-school slump. But fear not! We’ve got just the solution to keep energy levels high for both you and your kiddos: Homemade Almond Butter and Honey Protein Bars. These bars aren’t just an easy snack to make; they’re packed with nutrients that will boost brain function, fuel bodies, and keep everyone going strong throughout the day.

Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, grabbing a snack between meetings, or refueling after sports practice, these almond butter protein bars are the perfect option. Not only are they vegan and oil-free, but they’re also made with Maisie Jane’s smooth or crunchy almond butter and Maisie Jane’s honey, providing natural sweetness and flavor. Plus, they’re a much more affordable and healthier alternative to store-bought protein bars like Perfect Bars or Go Macro bars.

The Power of Homemade Snacks

As parents, it can sometimes feel like a challenge to balance quick, convenient snacks with those that are healthy and nutritious. Store-bought snacks, while convenient, are often filled with preservatives, excess sugar, and artificial ingredients. With these Homemade Almond Butter and Honey Protein Bars, you can feel confident knowing exactly what ingredients are fueling your family.

These bars are customizable too! Not only can you use Maisie Jane’s almond butter, but you can also mix in dried fruits, seeds, or other nuts for added variety. Swap out the protein powder for extra oats if you prefer, or adjust the sweetness to your family’s taste. The crisp cereal adds a delightful crunch, while the combination of honey and vanilla keeps the bars naturally sweet without the need for processed sugars.

Recipe: Homemade Almond Butter and Honey Protein Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats, blended until fine
1/3 cup dried banana chips, blended with oats
1/4 cup vanilla or plain protein powder (or extra oat flour)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup hemp seeds, chia seeds, or ground flax seeds
1 cup crisp cereal, like puffed brown rice, Chex, or Rice Crispies
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, chopped chocolate, coconut, or chopped nuts
1/2 cup Maisie Jane’s Smooth or Crunchy Almond Butter
1/3 cup Maisie Jane’s honey
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a large bowl, stir together the oat flour, banana chip powder, protein powder, salt, cereal, hemp/chia/flax seeds, and any mix-ins like chocolate chips.
Pour in the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture together and use your hands to really work everything in until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
Press the mixture into an 8-inch square pan or roll it into 16 small balls.
Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 1 hour before cutting it into 12 bars. Wrap the bars individually or keep them covered in the fridge until ready to eat.

Each bar contains 10 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, making it the perfect midday pick-me-up for the whole family!

Why Almonds Are a Brain Powerhouse for Kids (and Adults!)

It’s no secret that a well-balanced diet is essential for optimal health, but did you know that eating almonds daily can support cognitive function and brain health? Almonds are a superfood for kids (and grown-ups!) because they’re packed with vitamins and nutrients that benefit the brain.

Here’s why almonds are such a great snack for brain health:

Rich in Vitamin E: Almonds are loaded with Vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its brain-boosting properties. Studies show that Vitamin E can help improve cognitive performance, especially in children. It helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress, keeping the brain sharp and functioning well.
High in Magnesium: This essential mineral is crucial for nerve function. Magnesium aids in the transmission of signals between nerve cells, which enhances memory and learning in kids. It’s also known to help regulate mood and reduce anxiety, making it perfect for those first-day-of-school jitters.
Healthy Fats for Brain Development: Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, the kind that helps with brain development. These fats also support heart health and are a great source of sustained energy, which is important for keeping kids focused throughout the school day.
Good Source of Protein: Protein is essential for growth and development. For growing kids, getting enough protein is vital for both their body and brain to function at their best. The combination of almond butter and other ingredients in these bars ensures they get a great source of plant-based protein in every bite.

Snack Smart, Snack Healthy

With the school year well underway, it’s important to set the foundation for healthy eating habits. Snacks like these homemade almond butter bars are not only delicious but also offer essential nutrients to keep your kids’ brains and bodies energized. By incorporating almonds and other brain-boosting ingredients into their daily routine, you’re helping them stay sharp, focused, and ready to tackle whatever the school year throws their way.

So, whether it’s a busy morning, an afternoon snack, or a post-dinner treat, make these Homemade Almond Butter and Honey Protein Bars a go-to in your household. They’re sure to become a family favorite!

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