I first made a version of these scrumptious energy bars towards the beginning of the summer holidays, when my daughter and her fiance were here for their hols. The bars disappeared in a flash!

Since then I have made several versions, none of them lasting more than a couple of days. So, I thought I’d share the recipe with you. Don’t be afraid of substituting and adjusting – that’s half the fun of cooking!:

       Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup goji berries (I was out of these so used dried apricots for the bars pictured)
• 1/3 cup dried, finely chopped, pitted dates
• 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (I used cashews)
• 1/4 cup of grated chocolate or chocolate chips (I actually used chocolate powder in this batch)

      Method

• Heat oven to 180°C (350°F)
• Mix the nuts with the oats and spread out on a lightly oiled large baking tray
• Place tray in oven for 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, place butter, honey/maple syrup, vanilla extract and salt in a small saucepan and gently heat until butter is melted.
• Using a large bowl, mix the butter mixture with the toasted oats and nuts, then leave for a couple of minutes to cool a little.
• Add the chopped dates and berries/chopped apricots, then the grated chocolate.
• Stir well then transfer to an 8 inch dish, lined with parchment paper or cling-film.
• Using a spatular, evenly distribute the mixture, pressing down very firmly. (It’s really important to be firm as this ensures everything melds together properly).
• Place the dish in a fridge for 2 hours, then remove the contents and cut into size required.
• Eat and enjoy!

Tip: The bars can be kept at room temperature on a worktop or table, but they tend to become very soft. I keep mine in the fridge. (It also stops me eating one every time I walk past them!)