Are you ready to fuel your day with a deliciously healthy snack that you can whip up in just 40 minutes? Look no further than these Homemade Energy Snack Bars! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nut butter, and a delightful mix of nuts and dried fruits, these bars are not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout boost, or a midday pick-me-up, these energy bars are your perfect solution. Dive into our simple recipe and discover how easy it is to create your own tasty snacks that will keep you energized all day long!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries)
- 1/4 cup seeds (chia, flax, or pumpkin)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of chopped mixed nuts, 1/2 cup of dried fruit, and 1/4 cup of seeds. Stir these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup and 1/2 cup of nut butter (peanut or almond). Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
- Pour the warm nut butter and sweetener mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly with the back of the spatula to ensure it holds together during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into 10 equal-sized bars. This will help them set properly and make them easier to handle.
- Store the energy bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Tips
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap out the nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences. Try adding chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or even protein powder for an extra boost!
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This step is crucial for ensuring they hold together and don’t crumble when you take a bite.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture into the baking dish, press it down firmly. This helps the bars stick together during baking and ensures a chewy texture.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the bars as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown edge to know they’re ready.
- Storage Matters: For optimal freshness, store your energy bars in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
