Chewy Nut and Seed Energy Bars

Raw Superfood and Seed Energy Bars (adapted from this great recipe at Green Kitchen Stories)
Makes around 16 bars

Dry ingredients
1 cup pumpkin seeds
1 cup dried shredded coconut
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
4 tbs chia seeds
2 tbsp bee pollen (optional)

Wet ingredients
20 fresh medjool dates, pitted
6 tbsp coconut oil, room temperature
4 tbsp raw cacao powder
1 whole vanilla bean, cut into pieces (including the pod) or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add after blending
6 tbsp rolled oats
2 tbsp poppy seeds

1. In a food processor or high speed blender, pulse the dry ingredients quickly. Do not over-process, you want it a little crunchy. Place the mixture in a bowl and set aside. Add half of the dates and the rest of the wet ingredients to the food processor. Run the processor for 30 seconds, then add the rest of the dates one at a time while the machine is running until the mixture is smooth. You might have to help out by stirring around a few times with a fork or add a dash of water.

2. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients, add oats and poppy seeds and stir until well combined (I used my hands to really get the mixture well combined!). Press the mixture evenly into a 11 x 7-inch baking dish, make sure it becomes quite compact. Place in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Cut into bars. Wrap them in paper and store in an air-tight container. Will keep around a week in the fridge.