Crunchy Almond Butter Squares

A great alternative to regular rice crispy squares
a jar of almond butter viewed from above
© Can Stock Photo / charlottelake

These crunchy almond butter squares are a great alternative to regular rice crispy squares that are traditionally made with marshmallows and peanut butter. These tasty treats are not only super easy to make, they are a great vehicle for sneaking in fiber (chia/flax), omega 3s (hemp/chia/flax) and protein (hemp, almond butter)! These “good fats” and proteins are the most important building blocks for growing kids. They're ideal for an on-the-go snack when you're out for a walk or in school lunches!

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup almond butter
  • ¾ cup agave syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla 4 cups brown rice crispies*
  • ¼ cup hemp seeds
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp raw cocoa nibs**

To make:

  1. In a large saucepan, melt almond butter and agave. Once melted and bubbling, mix in the brown rice crispies and the other ingredients.
  2. Add more rice if needed to make it thick enough to stick together well.
  3. Before it cools, spread in a 9 by 9 pan. Let set and store in fridge.
  4. Cut into squares.

*Nature’s Path makes eco-pacs of Koala Crisp and boxes of Crisp Rice
**Organic Traditions makes some good ones.

You can replace the almond butter with peanut butter, the agave with honey, and hemp and chia seeds can be traded-out for flax or even toasted sesame seeds. No cocoa nibs? Try Cocoa Camino Chocolate Chips instead. Chia seeds are the ultimate “power food.” The tiny wholefood of the legendary marathon running Tarahumara Indians of Copper Canyon in Mexico, they’re super high in omega 3 fatty acids (great for brain, heart health), and high in protein, calcium and anti-oxidants. Like flax (but I like the texture better) you can sprinkle these on salads, cooked or cold cereal, or yogurt.