Servings: Makes about 20 bars 

These energy bars are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals and protein. They are truly awesome because they taste great!

Wheat germ is often found in its raw form. To toast wheat germ, just place the desired quantity in a dry skillet and heat over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. As soon as it becomes fragrant and starts to brown, remove it from the heat and cool before using.

Awesome energy bars should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick cooking rolled oats

1/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour

1/2 cup powdered nonfat dry milk

1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds

1/2 cup raw almonds

1/2 cup dried apricots

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup dried figs or pitted and dried dates

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (optional)

1/2 cup toasted wheat germ

1/3 cup pure maple syrup

2 large eggs

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch pan with a little canola oil or cooking spray.

2. Place all ingredients except the chocolate chips (if using), wheat germ, maple syrup and eggs in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. Add the chocolate chips (if using), wheat germ, maple syrup and eggs and pulse a few more times until everything is well combined. (The mixture will resemble a coarse paste.)

3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until firmly set.

4. Once cool enough to handle, cut into serving pieces and eat, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.