Save No-bake energy bars are the perfect quick and wholesome snack for those busy days when you need an energy boost on the go. Made from a hearty blend of oats, nuts, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners, these bars are easy to prepare without any baking. They combine chewy textures with rich flavors, providing a nutritious and satisfying treat that suits vegetarian diets and can be gluten-free when using certified oats.
Save These bars strike a perfect balance between chewy and firm, making them ideal for lunches, workouts, or a wholesome snack anytime. Using natural peanut or almond butter alongside honey or maple syrup brings delightful flavors and a touch of sweetness, binding the ingredients perfectly without any oven time required.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
- Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the pan
- Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- 2. Mix dry ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds (if using). Mix well.
- 3. Warm wet ingredients
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- 4. Combine mixtures
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- 5. Press and chill
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
- 6. Refrigerate
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- 7. Cut and store
- Lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Take your time pressing the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well. Warming the peanut butter and sweetener mixture just enough to become pourable helps coat the dry ingredients evenly without overheating. Using parchment paper with an overhang makes lifting out the bars easier, resulting in cleaner cuts and minimal mess.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make the bars nut-free. You can also add mini chocolate chips or try different dried fruits for varying flavor profiles. For vegan bars, use maple syrup instead of honey.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy these energy bars straight from the fridge as a quick snack or pack them in your lunchbox for an energizing midday treat. Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced snack break.
Save This simple recipe offers a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day with minimal fuss. Whether you need a quick bite between meetings or an energizing snack before your workout, these no-bake energy bars can be tailored to your preferences while keeping things wholesome and easy.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute nuts in the bars?
Yes, you can swap the nuts for seed butters like sunflower seed butter to make a nut-free version, or simply change the type of nuts to suit your preference.
- → How long should the bars chill before cutting?
Refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour or until firm to ensure clean slicing and proper texture.
- → Are toasted oats preferable for better flavor?
Using raw rolled oats works well, but lightly toasting them can enhance the nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the bars.
- → Can I replace honey with a vegan-friendly option?
Maple syrup is an excellent vegan alternative to honey, maintaining the natural sweetness and texture of the bars.
- → What tools are needed to prepare these bars?
A mixing bowl, saucepan, spatula, parchment paper, and an 8-inch square pan are essential for easy preparation and removal.