Seed Cycling Nature’s Candy Hormone Balancing Protein Bars are a delicious and functional snack designed to support hormonal health. Packed with nutrient-dense seeds, natural sweeteners, and wholesome ingredients, these bars are not only satisfying but also beneficial for women looking to balance their hormones through seed cycling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hormone-Supporting: Incorporates hormone-balancing seeds tailored to different phases of the menstrual cycle.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Free from artificial additives and refined sugars.
- Delicious and Nutritious: Sweetened naturally and packed with protein and healthy fats.
- Portable and Convenient: Perfect for busy days, post-workout snacks, or a quick energy boost.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt to your dietary preferences and needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Phase 1 (Follicular Phase) Seeds: Flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds
- Phase 2 (Luteal Phase) Seeds: Sesame seeds and sunflower seeds
- Rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- Almond butter or sunflower seed butter
- Medjool dates, pitted
- Protein powder (unflavored or vanilla)
- Honey or maple syrup
- Ground cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
- Optional: Dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried fruits
Directions
- Prepare the Seed Base: In a food processor, grind the flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds into a coarse meal.
- Blend the Ingredients: Add the oats, almond butter, dates, protein powder, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the processor. Blend until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
- Adjust Consistency: If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time until it holds together when pressed.
- Press Into a Pan: Line a baking dish with parchment paper and press the dough evenly into the pan. Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, remove from the dish and slice into bars.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
- Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and sweeten with maple syrup or agave.
- Chocolate Lover: Add dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
- Extra Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts or seeds for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. What is seed cycling?
Seed cycling is a natural method of supporting hormone balance by eating specific seeds during different phases of the menstrual cycle.
2. Can I skip the protein powder?
Yes, you can omit it, but the bars will have slightly less protein.
3. What type of dates should I use?
Medjool dates are ideal for their sweetness and stickiness.
4. Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, but a high-powered blender works best for processing the seeds and dates.
5. Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats and protein powder.
6. How do I know which seeds to use for each phase?
Use flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds for the follicular phase and sesame seeds and sunflower seeds for the luteal phase.
7. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer for convenient snacking.
8. Can I add fruits to the bars?
Yes, dried fruits like raisins or cranberries work well for added sweetness and texture.
9. Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re nutrient-packed and kid-friendly, but adjust sweetness if needed.
10. Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, peanut butter, cashew butter, or tahini are great alternatives.
Conclusion
Seed Cycling Nature’s Candy Hormone Balancing Protein Bars are a delicious way to support hormonal health while enjoying a nutrient-dense snack. Easy to make, store, and customize, these bars are perfect for anyone looking to incorporate seed cycling into their diet. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the benefits of this wholesome and tasty recipe!
PrintSeed Cycling Nature’s Candy Hormone Balancing Protein Bars
These Seed Cycling Protein Bars are a delicious and functional snack designed to support hormone balance through seed cycling. Packed with natural sweetness, healthy fats, and protein, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a nourishing treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Phase 1 (Follicular Phase – Days 1–14):
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds
- 1/4 cup ground pumpkin seeds
- Phase 2 (Luteal Phase – Days 15–28):
- 1/4 cup ground sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup ground sesame seeds
- Base Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups Medjool dates (pitted and softened if needed)
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Toppings (Optional):
- Melted dark chocolate for drizzling
- Extra shredded coconut or crushed seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates:
- If the dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Blend the Base:
- In a food processor, combine the dates, almond butter, protein powder (if using), cacao powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until a sticky dough forms.
- Add Seeds:
- Depending on your phase, add either the flaxseed and pumpkin seed mixture (Phase 1) or the sunflower and sesame seed mixture (Phase 2). Pulse until well combined.
- Shape the Bars:
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to form an even layer.
- Chill and Slice:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, slice into bars or squares.
- Optional Toppings:
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or sprinkle with extra seeds or shredded coconut for garnish.
- Store:
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Seed Cycling: Incorporate the appropriate seeds for each phase of your cycle to support hormone balance.
- For a lower-sugar option, reduce the dates and replace with a mix of unsweetened dried fruit and more protein powder.
- These bars can be made completely nut-free by substituting almond butter with sunflower seed butter.