Recipe for Au pays de Cornemuse daycare centre energy bites

These energy bars are favourite at Au pays de cornemuse daycare centre. Enjoyed by young and old alike, they’re one of the specialties of Roxanne, who runs the kitchen.

The Breakfast Club of Canada Nutrition Committee appreciates the versatility of this recipe, which can be made into both balls and bars. They’re also a great way to introduce puffed quinoa, a less well-known food.

Ingredients:
125 ml (1/2 cup) old-fashioned rolled oats
125 ml (1/2 cup) quick-cooking rolled oats
125 ml (1/2 cup) puffed quinoa
125 ml (1/2 cup) date purée
60 ml (1/4 cup) soy butter (Wow Butter)
60 ml (1/4 cup) shredded coconut (unsweetened)
60 ml (1/4 cup) crushed pumpkin seeds
60 ml (1/4 cup) raisins
15 ml (1 tbsp) honey

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the pitted dates and water. Microwave for 4 minutes at 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.
2. Mash the dates with a fork to create a purée.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the date purée, Wow Butter and honey.
4. Heat slightly in the microwave (approx. 15 to 20 seconds) or in a small saucepan on the stove to soften the mixture.
5. Stir until smooth.
6. In a large bowl, combine the oats, puffed quinoa, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds and raisins.
7. Mix well to distribute ingredients evenly.
8. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients.
9. Mix with a spatula or your hands until all ingredients are well coated.

For the ball version: Shape the mixture into 40 balls.

For the bar version:

• Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
• Pour the mixture into the pan and press firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to even out.
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours and cut into bars.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Tip:

Puffed quinoa can be made by hand. However, to save time, you can buy it ready-made in the organic section of supermarkets, and in bulk or health food stores.