Energy bars are a convenient snack that pack a lot of energy, but they can be unnecessarily expensive if you’re going through them quickly.

The best way to cut down the cost is to make them yourself.

The added advantage is that you can cut out the extra preservatives and any other ingredients that you may not like.

Here’s how to make your own all-natural energy bars with this no-bake recipe (featuring three nutrient-boosting ingredients) from ProBar founder Art Eggertsen.

Choco Chia Cherry Bars

INGREDIENTS
4 1/2 cups pitted dried dates
4 tablespoons agave or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup chia seeds
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dried tart cherries
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup granola

METHOD
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Add half the mixture to a food processor and process until the mixture clumps together.

Repeat with other half of the mixture. On a lightly greased baking sheet, press the mixture into a 10x8-inch square with a thickness of about 1/2-inch.

Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes; then cut into equal-sized bars. Makes 12 bars.