Mediterranean Energy Cookies

Ingredients

• Nuts: 1 cup mixed raw nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, roughly chopped)

• Seeds: 1 cup mixed seeds (such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and flaxseeds)

• Dried Fruit: 1/2 cup finely chopped dried fruits (such as apricots, raisins, or dates)

• Binder: 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup (to hold everything together)

• Healthy Fat: 2 tablespoons coconut oil or almond butter

• Flavor Boosters:

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • A pinch of sea salt

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Toast the Nuts and Seeds (Optional for Extra Flavor):

   • In a large skillet over medium-low heat, dry-toast the mixed nuts and seeds for 3 to 5 minutes until they become fragrant, stirring frequently. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl and mix in the chopped dried fruit.

3. Prepare the Sticky Binder:

   • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), coconut oil, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is warm, smooth, and fully combined.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Pour the warm syrup mixture over the dry nut and seed mixture. Stir thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are completely coated and sticky.

5. Form the Cookies:

   • Scoop out portions of the mixture and press them firmly into round cookie shapes or disk molds on the prepared baking sheet. (Pressing them tightly is important so they don’t crumble after baking).

6. Bake:

   • Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and bubbling.

7. Cool and Set:

   • Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet without touching them. They will harden and firm up as they cool down. Enjoy your healthy energy cookies!