Date-and-Nut Energy Bars

Preheat oven to 350°. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some hanging over edges of pan.

In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, dates and butter. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it forms a thick syrup.

In a large bowl, combine oats, almonds, pecans, pumpkin seeds and pine nuts. Add the warm syrup and mix well.

Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon to press mixture into bottom of pan and into the corners. (You may need to dampen or grease the spoon to prevent sticking.)

Bake until set and lightly browned, about 45 minutes. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Use parchment paper to lift bars from pan; transfer to a cutting board. Cut into squares. Store in an airtight container or freeze to have on hand for quick snacks.