These yummy and kid-friendly bars are the perfect on-the-go snack for a busy family. Not only are they packed with vitamins, minerals and wholesome nutrients, but they’re also super easy to make, versatile and cost-effective compared to protein fruit and nut bars from the grocery store. Also, they are picky-eater approved!
I love making protein packed fruit and nut bars at home because I know exactly what ingredients go into them. In our modern society, convenience foods such as protein bars and granola bars can be filled with a ton of artificial ingredients, preservative and fillers. Growing children can be sensitive to these additives in food, which can ultimately affect their behavior and development. When shopping for the ingredients, look for food labels where the only ingredient is raw almonds (organic is best) or unsweetened cherries. Watch out for added sugars and hydrogenated oils.
You can make these bars with or without the collagen however, I recommend including it as one scoop provides nine grams of protein. We love Collagen at SFC and our patients and clients have reported dramatic improvements in their hair, skin, nails, digestion, joint health and sleep. Collagen also helps keep bones strong and healthy which is extremely important for growing children. We fully support Vital Proteins Collagen at SFC as it is sourced from grass-fed, pastured-raise bovine hides. It is tasteless and dissolves in both warm and cold water, which is why we love adding to food and liquids. We have collagen canisters and samples in stock at SFC, so come on by and find out for yourself why we are crazy for Collagen!
10-12 servings
2 cups raw almonds
14-16 pitted dates
1 and 1/3 cup unsweetened cherries
4 Scoops Vital Proteins Collagen
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 to 2/3 cup water
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine almonds, dates, cherries, cinnamon and collagen
- Slowly add in the water a little at a time until the mixture begins to form and clump together
- Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper and press mixture into the dish
- Place in refrigerator for 2-3 hours to firm up. Use knife or pizza cutter and cut into bars. Store in sealed container in fridge.
