Orange High-Energy Oat Bars

Directions

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1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. To a pan on medium-high heat, toast pecans for 3 - 5 minutes until they become aromatic. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add the pecans and apricots to a food processor and blitz them up into small chunks.
4. Add the mixture from the food processor to a large bowl, along with the oats, almond flour, cinnamon, orange zest (save a bit for garnish!), and salt. Combine with a wooden spatula.
5. Then to the bowl, we'll add the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Line a 10 x 7 inch (26 x 17 cm) baking dish with parchment paper and transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Press down as firmly as possible, levelling it all out.
7. Bake in the centre rack of the oven for 25 - 30 minutes until the top is lightly golden.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes, and then remove from the baking dish to cool completely.
9. Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate. Drizzle it over the bars. Sprinkle on some sea salt and reserved orange zest. Cut into 8 squares or about 10 bars, and enjoy!

Notes

• * Use store-bought almond flour, or make it yourself by adding raw almonds to a food processor and blending until you achieve a flour-like consistency.
• ** One orange yields approximately 1 Tbsp of zest.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to 6 days, and in the freezer for up to 2 months.