Homemade Absolutely Gluten Free TahiniBAR Super Seed Energy Halva Bar with Cocoa Nibs Recipe: A Nutritious and Delicious Homemade Twist

Category: Energy Bars

Introduction

The Absolutely Gluten Free TahiniBAR Super Seed Energy Halva Bar with Cocoa Nibs is a beloved snack among health-conscious individuals, offering a perfect blend of nutty tahini, crunchy seeds, and rich cocoa nibs. Its popularity stems from its gluten-free and vegan-friendly formulation, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions. This bar is not only a tasty treat but also a nutrient-dense option, packed with super seeds like sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin, providing a boost of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. However, store-bought options can sometimes be pricey and may contain added preservatives. Making it at home allows for customization, cost savings, and the ability to enhance its nutritional profile.

I've always been a fan of the TahiniBAR, but when I realized I could replicate it at home, I was thrilled. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how closely it matched the original, if not surpassing it in freshness and flavor. My journey into homemade energy bars began with this recipe, and it's been a game-changer for my snack routine.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own energy bars at home offers numerous benefits. For one, you can control the ingredients, ensuring that each bar is made with wholesome, organic components if you choose. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also allows you to avoid any unwanted additives found in some commercial products. Additionally, homemade bars are often more cost-effective, as buying ingredients in bulk can be more economical than purchasing individual bars. Plus, the customization aspect is a significant advantage—whether you prefer a sweeter bar or one with an extra crunch, you can tweak the recipe to your liking.

Personal Anecdote

My love affair with the TahiniBAR began a few years ago when I first discovered it at a local health food store. The combination of tahini and cocoa nibs was unlike anything I'd tasted before—it was creamy, nutty, and slightly bitter, all in perfect harmony. However, as much as I adored it, I found myself wishing for a slightly healthier version with less sugar. This desire sparked my interest in recreating it at home. After several trials and tweaks, I finally nailed down a recipe that not only mirrored the original in taste and texture but also offered a better nutritional profile. It's been a staple in my pantry ever since, and I take pride in knowing exactly what goes into each bar.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:0 minutes (no cooking required)
• **Total Time:15 minutes
• **Yield:8-10 bars

Ingredients

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120g) sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup (60g) pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa nibs

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) tahini paste (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp (15ml) coconut oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tbsp (15g) chia seeds
• 1 tbsp (15g) flaxseeds

Instructions

• Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large skillet, lightly toast the sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool slightly.

• Grind the Seeds: Transfer the toasted seeds to a food processor and pulse until they reach a coarse, chunky texture. Be careful not to overprocess, as you want to retain some crunch.

• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini paste, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.

• Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients over the ground seeds and stir until everything is well incorporated. Fold in the unsweetened shredded coconut, cocoa nibs, chia seeds, and flaxseeds if using.

• Press the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a lined or lightly oiled 8x8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly oiled) to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish.

• Chill and Set: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut into bars of your desired size.

• Serve: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace half the maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Nutty Delight: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter into the wet ingredients for added creaminess.

Pro Tips

• Toasting the Seeds: Lightly toasting the seeds enhances their flavor and aroma. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Texture Control: For a chunkier bar, pulse the seeds less; for a smoother texture, pulse a bit more.
• Pressing Firmly: Ensure the mixture is pressed firmly into the dish to hold the bars together well.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones? While tahini is typically processed, you can make your own by blending sesame seeds with oil. Similarly, seeds should be fresh for the best flavor.

• What if the mixture is too crumbly? Add a bit more tahini or a drizzle of maple syrup to bind it better.

• How do I make it last longer? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for up to a month.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches? Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed.

• Is it suitable for all dietary needs? This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, but ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack On-the-Go: Perfect for a quick energy boost during hikes or busy days.
• Post-Workout Fuel: Provides a mix of protein and carbohydrates for recovery.
• Breakfast Option: Pair with fruit or yogurt for a nutritious start to the day.

Conclusion

Creating your own TahiniBAR at home is not only cost-effective and healthier but also incredibly rewarding. With this recipe, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors as the store-bought version while tailoring it to your dietary preferences. The process is simple, requiring no cooking and minimal preparation time. Give it a try and experience the satisfaction of biting into a fresh, homemade energy bar that nourishes both body and taste buds. Share your creations and enjoy the journey of homemade goodness!