Indulgent Goodness: Homemade Sugar-Free Energy Bars

Elevate your snacking game with our Homemade Sugar-Free Energy Bars! These bars are a nutritious and delicious treat, packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, dried fruits, and a decadent dark chocolate topping. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a satisfying post-workout snack, or a guilt-free indulgence, these energy bars are sure to hit the spot.

Preparation Time:

Preparation time for these Homemade Sugar-Free Energy Bars is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional baking and chilling time of about 50-60 minutes.

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup (80g) rolled oats

• • 3/4 cup (100g) raisins
  • 3/4 cup (80g) walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 100g (3.5 oz) dried apricots, chopped

• • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
  • 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate (without added sugar), chopped
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or oil of your choice)

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup (80g) rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup (100g) raisins
  • 3/4 cup (80g) walnuts, roughly chopped

• • 100g (3.5 oz) dried apricots, chopped
  • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
  • 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate (without added sugar), chopped

• 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or oil of your choice)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients:

1. 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, raisins, walnuts, and dried apricots.
   2. Stir in the mashed banana until everything is well mixed and the mixture starts to stick together.

Form the Bars:

1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly into an even layer to help the bars stick together after baking.

Bake:

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping:

1. 1. While the bars are baking, melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil. You can do this in a microwave in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove.

Add Chocolate Layer:

1. Once the bars are done, remove them from the oven and while still warm, pour the melted chocolate over the top, spreading it out to cover the surface evenly.

Refrigerate:

1. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, then place the bars in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up the chocolate and make the bars easier to cut.

Cut and Serve:

1. 1. Once chilled, remove the bars from the refrigerator and lift them out of the dish using the edges of the parchment paper.

1. Cut into desired sizes and shapes.

Storage:

1. 1. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be wrapped individually for on-the-go snacks.

Tips:

• • Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and proper binding.
  • Customize with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.

• Toast oats and nuts for a crunchier texture if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy these Homemade Sugar-Free Energy Bars as a quick breakfast option, a midday snack, or a post-workout refuel. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • Ensure the banana is ripe for natural sweetness and better binding of the ingredients.
  • Customize the bars with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for added texture and flavor.

• Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish to create cohesive bars.

Nutritional Benefits:

These energy bars offer a range of nutritional benefits:

• • Oats provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, promoting sustained energy.
  • Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals like copper and manganese.
  • Dried fruits like raisins and apricots add natural sweetness and vitamins.

• Dark chocolate (without added sugar) contains antioxidants and may support heart health.

Dietary Information:

• • Sugar-Free: Ideal for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.

• Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for vegans when using dairy-free dark chocolate.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. 1. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, these bars offer a wholesome snack option.
   2. Customizable: Customize the bars with your favorite flavors and textures.
   3. Convenient: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a quick breakfast option.

1. Satisfying: The combination of oats, nuts, fruits, and chocolate provides a satisfying and indulgent treat.

Conclusion: These Homemade Sugar-Free Energy Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of day. With their natural sweetness, satisfying crunch, and wholesome ingredients, they’re sure to become a favorite in your snacking repertoire. Enjoy the goodness of homemade treats without the added sugar and revel in the energy-boosting benefits of these delightful bars!