When it comes to Mexican Christmas baking, there’s one traditional treat that brings joy with every bite – Alegrías Amaranth Seed Bars. These delightful bars are not only delicious but also provide a wonderful opportunity to incorporate amaranth seeds, a powerhouse of nutrition, into your holiday treats. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of Mexican flair to your Christmas baking or simply want to impress your loved ones with a unique and wholesome dessert, these Alegrías bars are the perfect choice.
**Alegrías Amaranth Seed Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup amaranth seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast the Amaranth and Pumpkin Seeds:** In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the amaranth seeds and pumpkin seeds for about 5 minutes or until they start popping. Be sure to shake the skillet frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Honey Mixture:** In a medium saucepan, combine the honey and brown sugar over low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture becomes syrupy.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, mix the toasted amaranth and pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, chopped almonds, pistachios, and ground cinnamon. Pour the warm honey mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
4. **Press into a Pan:** Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spatula or your hands to compact the ingredients.
5. **Chill and Cut:** Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the bars to set. Once chilled, remove from the pan and cut into squares or bars of your desired size.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Your Alegrías Amaranth Seed Bars are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a festive holiday treat or wrap them up as delightful edible gifts for friends and family.
These Alegrías Amaranth Seed Bars are not only a delicious addition to your Christmas baking repertoire but also a nutritious one. Amaranth seeds are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making these bars a wholesome choice for your holiday snacking. The combination of crunchy seeds, sweet honey, and festive spices creates a flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests alike.
Whether you enjoy these bars with a cup of hot chocolate by the fireplace or pack them in your holiday gift baskets, they are bound to spread joy and cheer all around. So why not add a touch of Mexican tradition to your Christmas celebrations this year with these delightful Alegrías Amaranth Seed Bars? Happy baking and feliz Navidad!
