Coconut-Almond Energy Bars

Coconut-Almond Energy Bars

These are hearty treats and The Runner's World Cookbook says that they've been fueling active athletes for more than 30 years!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and coat a 10" X 15" baking sheet with cooking spray.  (I lined mine with aluminum foil for easy cleaning and so I could easily pull the bars out for cutting.)

In a large bowl, combine the following:

• 2 cups oats
• 1 cup shredded coconut 
• 1/2 cup raw whole almonds (I gave all the nuts a rough chop, but it's up to you)
• 1/2 cup raw cashews 
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped dates or raisins

In a microwavable bowl, combine 1 cup peanut butter with 1 cup honey.  Heat for one minute and stir.  Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix well again.

Pour your peanut butter mixture into the oat mixture and stir until well-combined.  Pour the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and, with wet fingers, press into a rectangle a little shorter than your baking sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges have turned golden brown.   (Do not overbake, the bars will firm up as they cool.)

Enjoy these delicious and energy-filled treats.