One thing I’ve learned about raising boys is that they are ALWAYS hungry! With that in mind, I try to make sure that the food they eat is giving them the energy they need to fuel their active lives. They spend a good portion of their afternoons biking around or riding their scooters or roller blades. In the summer, they pretty much live in our local lake between swimming and kayaking. This recipe for Dark Chocolate Almond Bars is just the thing to keep their hunger at bay.
I came across Nutty Novelties Dark Chocolate Almond Butter at Weaver’s Orchard, and we have been hooked. I make homemade sourdough bread in our breadmaker that we often eat for Breakfast. We spread the nut butter on toast in the morning for a delicious and nutritionally dense side.
With summer approaching, I expect we’ll be on-the-go more often: taking little hikes, swimming with friends, going on field trips and attending a few day camps and Vacation Bible Schools. I decided to try a new spin on our favorite peanut butter energy bites by making these Dark Chocolate Almond Protein Bites.
To say they were a hit would be an understatement! As I was taking these photos, my 6-year-old was sitting over my shoulder salivating, waiting for his chance to eat his Dark Chocolate Almond Bar!
Although these are high in protein, I will note that I consider them to be more of a dessert/granola bar category because they are high in sugar and nuts are naturally higher in good, healthy fats. (For growing children and active adults, some healthy plant-based fats are an excellent, sustaining calories — especially for those who get in a lot of steps at work!)
Swing by our market this summer and be sure to pick up some Nutty Novelties nut butters, made locally in Telford, PA. Buying local products helps support multiple small, family owned businesses in your community – a great way to start off your summer!
Try the recipe and let us know what you think!
PrintDark Chocolate Almond Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 1 (8oz) Package Nutty Novelties Dark Chocolate Almond Butter
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 tbsp ground flax seed
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips, divided
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
In a food processor, mix together the dark chocolate almond butter, oats and flax seed. Pulse until thoroughly blended.
Remove from food processor and place in a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of the chocolate chips and mix until thoroughly combined.
Spread evenly in a small container (a cake pan or 11-cup Pyrex container works well)
In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
Sprinkle the almonds on top of the Dark Chocolate Almond Bars
Drizzle with melted chocolate.
Refrigerate until cooled. Best when served chilled.