Healthy SUNFLOWER inspired energy bar recipe

The Coasun Technology has the unique ability to utilize and encapsulate any type of oil.  Sunflower oil has a great nutritional profile (see fatty acid profile at bottom of recipe), is trans fat free, low in saturated fat and a source of linoleic acid.  It also has a clean flavour and is a source of vitamin E.  CoasunSA was formulated with high oleic sunflower oil for the healthy sunflower inspired energy bar recipe below.  Enjoy these bars for breakfast or when you need a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me up!

• 2 cups rolled oats (not instant)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup unsalted sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup unsalted pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup Coasun SA made with High Oleic Sunflower Oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp fine salt
• 1 egg

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper so that the paper hangs over the sides of the pan.
2. Toss oats, peanuts, coconut, raisins, sunflower and pumpkin seeds together in a bowl.
3. Blend Coasun SA, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla, spices and salt on low speed for 1 minute.
4. Add egg and blend for 30 seconds
5. Add oat mixture and mix on medium speed for 1 minute until mixture is thoroughly distributed.
6. Spread energy bar mixture into prepared pan, patting down to make even
7. Bake for 30 minutes at 350˚C then cool for 20 minutes before chilling for 2 hours.
8. To cut, lift energy bar mixture out of pan with parchment paper and cut into desired bars.

*High Oleic Sunflower Oil fatty acid profile:

16:0   5%
18:0   4%
18:1   82%
18:2   9%