Gluten Free Goodies: Fruit and Nut Bars!

In an attempt to decrease some health issues (migraines, etc), I'm giving Gluten Free living a trial run.  I found a recipe for a homemade version of Larabars on Pinterest, and decided to try it out.  I stuck with the traditional recipe-- equal parts almonds, dried dates, and dried cranberries, and then I added some flax seed for extra omega-3. 

I put all the ingredients in the food processor like so... just with the normal blade.

 I processed it until it was a moldable consistency--about 2 minutes. 

 Then I put down some plastic wrap and emptied the processed fruit and nut.  The fruit and nut combination looks a little gross at this stage (and sort of like ground beef)... but trust me, its very sweet and yummy.

 I formed a square with fingers so it would be easier to cut them into neat bars. I chose to make 2-inch squares.

    

Then I wrapped them in parchment paper and they were ready for my lunch box! I stored them on the counter, and they stayed fine.

For fun I experimented with some different combinations-- one with berries, pecans, coconut and chocolate (still added dates for consistency sake).  This tasted like candy to me!

Ready to try these? Let me know if you make them and what new combinations you like!

Shauna