Energisers - Almond butter squares

*Phew* It's been a busy week! My mind is spinning with new ideas and inspiration and the whole week has just flown by. No matter how busy it gets, however, I just can't go without eating properly. I notice when my blood sugar and energy levels are running low and I don't like munching on just anything I can get my hands on. I often carry snacks like nuts and seeds or fresh fruit with me in case things get a little hectic and I won't have time for a proper meal.

These little squares are packed with energy and natural ingredients. You can easily change the recipe to suit your taste and preferences: try adding chia seeds and ground cinnamon, different nuts and dried berries, for instance. They make an excellent home-made food gift too!

 Almond butter squares

(Makes 16-20 squares)

1 1/2 cups raw almonds

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon raw honey

1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract

3 tablespoon unsweetened apple sauce

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup coconut flakes

1/4 cup dried cherries

1/4 cup raw cocoa nibs

1/4 cup slivered almonds

Preheat your oven to 200C. Spread the almonds evenly on a baking tray and roast for about 10 minutes. Transfer the nuts into a food processor and process for about 10 minutes or until the texture is smooth and butter-like. Place the almond butter into a saucepan along with maple syrup, honey, vanilla and apple sauce and heat just enough to mix the ingredients together. Remove from the heat.

Mix the oats, coconut, cherries, cocoa and almonds in a separate bowl. Spoon the almond butter mixture on top and mix everything together. Be patient, the mixture is sticky but the stickier it is the better!

Spoon the mixture into a square tin (20 cm x 20 cm) rinsed with cold water. Spread evenly, then refrigerate for a couple of hours. Cut into squares before serving.