RECIPE: Hemp Cacao Protein Bars

These are delicious and incredibly nutritious. I know you’re thinking twice about making them because of the ingredients but I promise you can substitute; hemp hearts can be substituted for sunflower or sesame seeds and use whatever protein powder you like. These bars hold well and provide protein, good fats and carbohydrates for your training. Wrap them individually and pop them in your pocket. In summer, it’s possible to freeze the wrapped bars and they defrost as you ride along.

Ingredients 

Dry ingredients

1 cup pumpkin seeds

1 cup dried shredded coconut

1/2 cup hemp hearts

1/2 cup hemp protein powder (or pea protein)

4 tbsp chia seeds

Wet ingredients

20 fresh medjool dates, pitted

6 tbsp coconut oil, room temperature

4 tbsp cacao powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

Pulse the dry ingredients quickly in a food processor without over doing it. You still want them crunchy! Place the mixture in a bowl and set aside.

Add all wet ingredients to the food processor or high speed blender and run until smooth. If the mixture is a bit sticky, add some water to help it blend.

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Spread the batter evenly into a 11 x 7-inch (28 x 18 cm) baking dish, pressing down evenly.

Place in the fridge for an hour or more. The longer you leave it before cutting, the better. Wrap bars individually.