I loved Rice Krispies treats as a kid, but I didn’t know that with every bite, I was eating a sugar rocket that sent my blood glucose into the stratosphere. A series of healthy swap-ins make these an easily grabbable snack when you’re looking for a sweet energy booster. Medjool dates—the really fudgy, sticky, plump ones usually grown in the Middle East or California—take the place of the sugary marshmallow. The dates have a drastically lower glycemic profile than white sugar, not to mention healthy fiber and potassium. I also love the way the hemp seeds and goji berries add color and pack in tons of additional superfood power. And—oh, yeah—my kids and my mom love them.
Makes 16 squares
Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with coconut oil cooking spray or baking spray.
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the dates on medium-high speed until smooth and the date paste coats the sides of the bowl, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the almond butter, coconut nectar, dissolved psyllium husks, and salt and beat on medium-high speed until the dates and nut butter are incorporated and creamy, about 30 seconds. Reduce the speed to low, add the millet cereal, hemp seeds, and goji berries, and mix until just combined, 5 to 10 seconds.
Press some of the mixture between your hands; if it sticks together easily, great. If not, add another tablespoon of coconut nectar and try again.
Press the mixture into the baking dish, pressing down firmly to help it stick together. Refrigerate for 1 hour to firm, then cut into 16 squares and serve. The treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.