Banana Split Protein Bars

Yield: 16 Servings

Calories: 143 per bar.

Delicious and Healthy- Great Snack

 

Ingredients:

1/3 cup quinoa, rinsed well

1/2 cup water

2 cups quick rolled oats (use gf oats fo9r gluten free)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1 1/2 cups very ripe mashed bananas

1 large egg beaten

1/4 cup raw honey (oar pure maple syrup

1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup dried cherries (or crasisins)

1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts, or pecans

1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Method:

-Line a 9 x 13" baking pan with two pieces of foil or parchment paper, criss-crossing over so they fold over the pan; spray with non-stick spray

-Combine the quinoa and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 10 to 12 minutes or until liquid is barely absorbed. Remove from the heat. Cover and let stand 5 to 6 minutes , remove lid and fluff with a fork. Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely.

-Mix together the oats, cinnamon, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.

-Add mashed bananas, egg, honey, coconut oil, and vanilla to the cooked bowl of quinoa and stir until just blended.

-Add the banana mixture to the oats mixture and stir until just blended- fold in the cherries, nuts and chocolate chips.

-Spread the batter evenly over the prepared pan

-Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

-Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

-For best results, refrigerate 20 minutes before cutting

-Using the liner, lift the mixture from the pan and transfer to a cutting board, Cut into 16 bars and refrigerate or freeze to store.

Enjoy, Chef Ed