These homemade oatmeal energy bars are a perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars, they make for a delicious and wholesome snack or breakfast on the go. The combination of oats, apple, banana, and nuts provides a great source of energy, making them ideal for pre- or post-workout fuel. With a touch of cinnamon and the goodness of coconut oil, these bars are both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack for the day or a nutritious breakfast bar, these oatmeal energy bars are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation Time

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• • 100 g (1 cup) ground oat flakes
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) whole oat flakes

• • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 apple, chopped
  • 1 banana, mashed

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or your favorite oil)
• 25 g (1/4 cup) nuts or almonds, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

• • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with a bit of coconut oil.

• In a small bowl, mash 1 banana until smooth. Chop 1 apple into small pieces and set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the 100 g (1 cup) ground oat flakes, 50 g (1/2 cup) whole oat flakes, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir to combine.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• • Add the mashed banana and chopped apple to the dry ingredients. Stir to combine.

• Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a microwave or on the stovetop and add it to the mixture. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

4. Add Nuts:

• Chop 25 g (1/4 cup) of nuts or almonds and fold them into the mixture. These will add a nice crunch and healthy fats to the bars.

5. Press and Bake:

• • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with a spoon or spatula to evenly distribute the mixture and compact it.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and firm to the touch.

6. Cool and Slice:

• Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or rectangles.

Serving Suggestions

• • As a Snack: Enjoy these oatmeal energy bars as a snack during the day. They are perfect for a quick energy boost between meals.

• For Breakfast: Pair the bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a filling and nutritious breakfast.
• Post-Workout Fuel: These bars are great for replenishing energy after a workout. Pair them with a protein smoothie for a balanced recovery meal.

Cooking Tips

• • Texture Tip: If you prefer a chewier texture, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture for added moisture.

• Storage Tip: These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

Variations to Try

• • Add More Fruits: Try adding raisins, dried cranberries, or blueberries for extra flavor and sweetness.
  • Nut-Free Version: If you have a nut allergy, simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• Chocolate Chip Energy Bars: For a sweeter version, add a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oats: Oats are high in fiber, which helps to regulate digestion and provides a steady release of energy. They also contain antioxidants and support heart health.
  • Apple and Banana: Both the apple and banana provide natural sugars for energy, as well as vitamins and minerals like potassium and vitamin C.

• Nuts/Almonds: Nuts and almonds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great addition to any snack.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a healthy source of fat that can promote energy and support metabolism.

Conclusion

These healthy oatmeal energy bars are a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a great way to fuel your day. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy treat, these bars will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized. With endless variations to try, you can customize these bars to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs.