Save A quick and wholesome snack made with oats, nuts, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners — perfect for on-the-go energy without any baking.
I often prepare these no-bake energy bars ahead of time to keep my day fueled with a healthy treat that requires no oven 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
- Step 1:
- Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds (if using). Mix well.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
- Step 6:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Step 7:
- 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.
Save This recipe always brings my family together for a healthy snack break that everyone enjoys.
Notes
Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make the bars nut-free. Add mini chocolate chips or swap dried fruit types to vary flavor. For vegan bars, use maple syrup instead of honey.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, saucepan, spatula, 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan, parchment paper, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains nuts and peanuts (if using peanut butter or nuts). Contains coconut (tree nut allergen for some). Gluten-free if using certified oats. For severe allergy concerns always check all ingredient labels.
Save These no-bake energy bars are a simple way to enjoy a nutritious snack anytime.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the nut butter?
Yes, sunflower seed butter can be used to make the bars nut-free while maintaining creaminess.
- → How long do these bars stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the bars remain fresh for up to one week.
- → Are there vegan sweetener options?
Maple syrup is an excellent vegan alternative to honey for sweetening the bars naturally.
- → Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, mini chocolate chips can be incorporated to vary the flavor and add a touch of sweetness.
- → What if I want gluten-free bars?
Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the bars are gluten-free.