Almond Chocolate Protein Bars

 These are a true protein bar, with about 19 grams of protein per bar.

Ingredients:

·      2 cups vanilla protein powder

·      ½ cup oat flour (I just put whole rolled oats into the blender until it resembles flour)

·      1.5 cups almond meal (I use the blender for whole almonds and blend until a coarse meal forms)

·      1 cup chopped almonds (once again, with the blender—just pulse a few times or use sliced or slivered almonds)

·      ½ cup pumpkin seeds, coarsely chopped

·      1 cup crisp brown rice

·      2 tbs almond butter

·      2 tbs honey

·      ¾ cup almond milk (or other milk)

·      ½ tsp vanilla extract

·      ¼ tsp almond extract

·      100 grams dark or semi-sweet chocolate

Directions:

1.     Place chocolate in a bowl over a small sauce pot of water and melt over medium heat

2.     Combine dry ingredients in large bowl and mix well.

3.     Combine wet ingredient in blender

4.     Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until incorporated. Mixture will have the consistency of cookie dough.

5.     Put mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Put more parchment paper over the top and press with hands or rolling pin or a glass until it is pressed in and packed tight. Remove paper and spread chocolate evenly over the top. Freeze for several hours. Cut into 20 equal portions. Store in freezer for up to 3 months or refrigerator for up to 10 days.