Cherry Nut Bars

We all know a few nut bars, but this post is about the good nuts lurking in your pantry. Enter these cherry pie bars with almonds and pistachios that are perfectly portable and energizing. No added sweetener here — just the goodness of dried fruit coupled with nourishing raw nuts. After making up some of these quick and easy bars, never again will you want to return to expensive and usually inferior store-bought varieties. Knowing what's in your food and, by extension your body, is one of the keys to good health.

These are perfect for a quick breakfast fix, snacks at work or school, and also road trips. They also make for a fine dessert, without the guilt. Give these a try and see if you don't agree.

Cherry Nut Bars

Recipe by Lisa Turner
Published on October 21, 2013

Easy no-cook unsweetened homemade fruit and nut bars loaded with nourishment and flavor

Preparation: 15 minutes

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Ingredients:

2/3 cup raw almonds
1/3 cup unsalted raw pistachios
1 cup dried cherries
1/4 cup pitted dried dates
1/4 cup prunes
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

Line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly brush with oil.
In a food processor, pulse together the almonds and pistachios until finely chopped. Add the cherries, dates, prunes, cinnamon and sea salt, and pulse until the mixture begins to hold together. Transfer to the prepared pan and press down firmly using the back of a spoon or a piece of wax paper. Cover the pan and let the mixture chill in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes.
Lift the mixture out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 6 to 8 bars. You can also shape the mixture into balls or cut into smaller bites.
These will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Makes 6 to 8 bars