Healthy Energy Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these energy bars for their simplicity, natural sweetness, and satisfying texture. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, they’re ideal for a quick snack, post-workout fuel, or a healthy treat on the go. Plus, they’re free from refined sugars, making them a guilt-free choice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Basis:
• 80 g oat flakes
• 100 g raisins
• 80 g walnuts
• 100 g dried apricots
• 1 banana

Glaze:
• 160 g dark chocolate without sugar
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

directions

1. In a food processor or blender, combine oat flakes, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and the peeled banana. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky, coarse dough.
2. Line a small baking dish or tray with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish to form a compact layer.
3. Melt the dark chocolate with the vegetable oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
4. Pour the melted chocolate glaze evenly over the pressed mixture and spread with a spatula.
5. Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.
6. Once set, cut into bars or squares. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 8 bars
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.
• Substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or cashews.
• Use dried cranberries or figs instead of raisins and apricots.
• For a nut-free version, replace nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

storage/reheating

Store energy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. They can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?

Dried fruit is best to help bind the bars. Fresh fruit will add moisture and may alter the texture.

Are these bars vegan?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.

Can I use other types of chocolate?

You can use sugar-free milk chocolate or dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage.

How do I make the bars crunchy?

Add more nuts or seeds and press the mixture firmly before chilling.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oat flakes to make the bars gluten-free.

How long do they last?

Store refrigerated and consume within one week for best freshness.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, adding a scoop of protein powder can boost the protein content.

Can I skip the chocolate glaze?

Yes, the bars will still taste great without the chocolate topping.

What is the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and cut when the bars are fully chilled and firm.

Conclusion

These tasty and healthy energy bars offer a quick, natural, and sugar-free way to fuel your day. With wholesome ingredients and an easy preparation, they’re perfect for busy lifestyles and anyone seeking a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

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