Keep Energized While Nursing: Energy Bar Recipe

Breastfeeding can be an energy suck – literally. Try getting some extra nutrients with yummy homemade bars to keep yourself energized throughout the day!

​​​​​​​Oats, Nuts & Fruits Energy Bar Recipe

       You’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cups chopped almonds, cashews, and peanuts (or favorite nuts)

• 1/3 cup brown rice cereal mixed with whole grain oats

• 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries, dates, etc.)

• 1/3 organic light brown rice syrup

Directions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil or parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

3. Stir together the nuts or seeds, cereal, oats, and dried fruit in a large bowl.

4. Add the syrup to the nut mixture and stir until evenly coated.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Place large piece of parchment paper, wax paper, or plastic wrap (coated with cooking spray) atop the bar mixture and use it to spread, flatten and very firmly compact the mixture evenly in the pan. Discard the paper or plastic.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes or until slightly browned at the edges, but still somewhat soft at the center. Let cool 20 mins in pan on a wire rack.

7. Using the liner, lift the mixture from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 10 bars. Cool completely.

To store: Tightly wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.