Save No-Bake Energy Bars are an effortless way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade snack packed with oats, nuts, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners. Whether you need a quick boost before a workout or a satisfying nibble during a busy day, these bars require no baking and minimal prep time. Their wholesome ingredients combine to fuel your body with lasting energy — perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle.
Save This recipe brings together the natural goodness of oats and nuts with the chewy sweetness of dried fruits and the smooth texture of nut butter. The gentle warming of the wet ingredients helps bind everything perfectly, creating bars that hold together firmly once chilled. The pinch of salt and vanilla extract enhance the flavor, making these snacks a delightful treat any time.
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 into pan
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
- 6. Chill
- 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
To make removal easier, ensure the parchment paper has enough overhang on all sides to lift the bars out cleanly. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to help the bars hold together well once chilled. If you’re adding chia seeds, allow your mixture a few extra minutes to thicken slightly before transferring to the pan.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to create nut-free bars. Add mini chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence or switch up the dried fruit to tailor flavors to your liking. For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup to keep the bars plant-based.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy these bars chilled straight from the fridge as a quick snack, or pack them in your lunchbox for a healthy afternoon boost. They pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit or a cup of tea for a satisfying break during the day.
Save
With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, these No-Bake Energy Bars offer a reliable source of fuel for your active days. Their simplicity, versatility, and nutritious profile make them a go-to recipe for anyone craving a healthy homemade snack on the fly.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can these bars be made nut-free?
Yes, swapping peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omitting nuts makes them nut-free.
- → How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to one week.
- → Are these bars suitable for vegans?
They can be vegan by replacing honey with maple syrup.
- → Can I add other flavor variations?
Yes, adding mini chocolate chips or changing dried fruit types offers tasty variations.
- → Why is chilling necessary?
Chilling allows the mixture to firm up for easy cutting and handling.