Maple Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Energy Bars

Perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or a snack full of protein. This recipe is from Jennifer McLaren.

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Ingredients

1 15-oz. can great northern beans (preferably low sodium), drained and rinsed
1/2 Cup pureed pumpkin
1/2 Cup maple syrup
1 tsp. PUMPKIN PIE SPICE (APPLE PIE SPICE or CINNAMON work as well)
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 Cups oats (rolled, old-fashioned or quick)
1 Cup spelt flour or whole wheat flour
1/2 Cup raisin bran cereal
1/2 Cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. In a food processor, combine the beans, pumpkin, syrup, PUMPKIN PIE SPICE and salt and blend until very smooth. Add the flour and pulse to combine. Add the oats and pulse to combine. Transfer to a large bowl. Add the cereal and chocolate chips and stir to combine. If the mixture seems spreadable, you’re good. If it’s too dry, add 1/4 cup of water. If it’s too runny, add an additional 1/4 cup of flour.

Grease a 9x13 pan. Spread the mixture in the pan. Have a small cup of water nearby and dip your spatula in the water to make it easier to spread the mixture in the pan, or pat it out with your hands. Bake at 350° for 15-18 minutes. Let cool and then cut into 1-2-inch squares. Remove from the pan, wrap individually in plastic wrap and keep in the refrigerator. Tasty and healthy!

Prep. time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-18 minutes
Yield: 30 bars

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