Granola Bars

I've long made my own granola for quick family breakfasts, but before we reduced our carb intake, I had only made granola bars once or twice. I recently came across a recipe for chewy granola bars that sounded pretty tasty. Oats are, of course, pretty high in carbs, so I spent a while brainstorming what to use instead. This recipe was the result. If you have a few carbs to spare, a handful of unsweetened dried berries would make a yummy addition.

1 c sliced almonds (3 oz)
1 c peanuts (4 oz)
1 c shredded coconut (2 oz)
½ c pumpkin seeds (2 oz)
½ c flax seeds, divided (3 oz)
1 c almond butter (9 oz)
3 T honey
½ c butter

1. Toast sliced almonds, peanuts, coconut, pumpkin seeds, and ¼ c flax seeds in an ungreased frying pan over medium heat, shaking or stirring often.
2. Grind remaining flax seeds into a paste in a small food processor or coffee grinder. Mix together with almond butter and honey.
3. Melt butter over medium heat. Add almond butter mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Pour over nut and seed mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Press into a 9x13 pan and refrigerate until solid (about 2 hours).
6. Slice into 16 bars and wrap in waxed paper. Store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 bar Serving per Recipe 16

Amount per Serving Calories 295 Total Fat 25.2 g   Saturated Fat 7.3 g   Polyunsaturated Fat 5.5 g   Monounsaturated Fat 10.9 g Cholesterol 15 mg Sodium 176 mg Potassium 277 mg Total Carbohydrates 13.5 g   Dietary Fiber 5.1 g   Sugars 4.9 g Protein 8.1 g