Hi friends! We’re so close to the long weekend, I can almost taste it!
In preparation for what is most likely going to be an indulgent weekend, for both my wallet and stomach, I’ve been focusing extra hard on eating real, unprocessed snacks throughout the day. I decided last weekend to whip up some faux-larabars and have been having about 4 of these each day as a mid-morning snack. As much as I loooooove larabars, they’re not exactly the cheapest things ever, and for good reason! They only contain about 3-6 ingredients and have a ton of healthy fats and protein to keep ya goin’. As far as quick snacks on the go, they’re something I’d recommend to anyone who’s trying to avoid processed, pre-packaged foods!
With this in mind, being able to make these little babies (literally in the food processor in 2 minutes or less) and have them on hand for snacks throughout the week, has made life a lot easier, and my grocery bill cheaper! They’re gluten-free, vegan, and have absolutely zero added sugar, though do keep in mind that dates and dried fruit in general have a decent amount of sugar in them already! That being said, you can pop these in a little tupperware and just eat according to how you’re feeling. If you’re hungry and need something to tide you over for at least an hour or two, I’d go with four, but if you just need a little something for your sweet tooth, knock that down to just a couple. You’re call though, of course 🙂
Cinnamon Raisin Energy Bites
1 1/2 cups roasted, unsalted almonds
10 medjool dates
3/4 cup seedless raisins
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1-2 tbsp warm water (if needed)
1. In a food processor or blender, pulse all ingredients until almonds are broken down and ingredients are well combined. Scrape down the sides of the food processor with a spatula periodically and add warm water if the the mixture seems too dry (after ~20 pulses or so). *Don’t be too quick to add the water though, as the oils from the almonds take time to be released and they will moisten the mixture!
2. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and form the batter into 1 inch balls (it should make about 2 dozen, give or take!). Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for one hour to enjoy (almost) immediately!
What are some of your favorite real-food, unprocessed snacks?!
xo jordan