No-Bake Seed and Nut Energy Bars
These No-Bake Seed and Nut Energy Bars are the perfect grab-and-go snack, packed with nutritious ingredients like peanuts, oats, and a variety of seeds and nuts. These bars offer a great combination of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them an excellent option for a quick energy boost during the day. The addition of dark chocolate glaze adds a touch of indulgence without overwhelming the healthy profile of these bars. Whether you need a pre-workout snack or an afternoon pick-me-up, these energy bars will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bars:
100g / 3.5 oz peanuts
200g / 7 oz oat flakes
30g / 1 oz pumpkin seeds
30g / 1 oz sunflower seeds
40g / 1.4 oz almonds
1 tbsp flaxseeds
2 tbsp honey (or a little more if needed)
50g / 1.7 oz dark chocolate without sugar
Salt flakes, to taste
Additional Ingredients for No-Bake Recipe:
1 tbsp coconut oil
15g / 0.5 oz coconut flake
Directions
Prepare the Ingredients:
Grind Peanuts: Grind 100g of peanuts into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. You want a crumbly texture that will help bind the mixture.
Toast Oats: In a pan, toast 200g of oat flakes over medium heat until they are golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This step enhances the flavor and adds a bit of crunch to the bars.
Prepare Seeds and Nuts: Measure out 30g of pumpkin seeds, 30g of sunflower seeds, and 40g of almonds. You can leave the almonds whole or chop them coarsely, depending on your texture preference.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground peanuts, toasted oats, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, and 1 tbsp of flaxseeds. Stir well to mix the dry ingredients together.
Combine the Ingredients:
Add Honey: Drizzle 2 tbsp of honey into the mixture and stir thoroughly. If needed, add a little more honey to ensure the mixture is sticky enough to hold together. The honey acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the bars.
Add Coconut Oil and Flakes: Mix in 1 tbsp of coconut oil and 15g of coconut flakes. These ingredients will help bind the mixture further while adding extra flavor and texture.
Form the Bars:
Shape the Bars: Using your hands or a mold, press the mixture firmly into a desired shape. You can make rectangular bars or round bites, adjusting the thickness according to your preference. Make sure the mixture is tightly packed so the bars hold together.
Add Chocolate Glaze:
Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 50g of dark chocolate without sugar. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Coat with Chocolate: Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the shaped bars, covering them evenly. Once coated, sprinkle a pinch of salt flakes over the chocolate for a burst of flavor.
Set the Bars:
Refrigerate: Place the bars in the fridge for 15 minutes to set. This will help the chocolate harden and ensure the bars are firm enough to hold their shape when served.
Serve:
Once set, remove the bars from the fridge and slice or cut them as needed. Enjoy them as a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or a post-workout energy boost
Serving Suggestions These energy bars are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with a refreshing cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon snack. For an extra indulgence, enjoy them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or alongside a smoothie. They’re also great for meal prep, making them a convenient option to have on hand for busy days.
Cooking Tips
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to adjust the amount of honey to your taste. You can also use maple syrup as a substitute for honey for a different flavor profile.
Add More Mix-ins: Feel free to customize the bars by adding additional ingredients like dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), or different types of seeds such as chia or sesame.
Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, separate layers of bars with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Benefits
Rich in Healthy Fats: The coconut oil, seeds, and nuts provide healthy fats that are essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting brain function.
High in Protein and Fiber: The combination of peanuts, oats, and flaxseeds offers a solid amount of protein and fiber, which helps with muscle repair and digestive health.
Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, making this treat not only delicious but also beneficial.
Dietary Information
Gluten-Free: These bars are naturally gluten-free, as they are made with oats and seeds instead of flour.
Dairy-Free: This recipe is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet.
Low Sugar: The bars are sweetened with honey and dark chocolate, which keeps the sugar content lower compared to traditional sweets.
Storage Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion These No-Bake Seed and Nut Energy Bars are a wholesome, satisfying snack that’s full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. With a bit of dark chocolate for sweetness and a sprinkle of salt for contrast, these bars make for a perfect, energizing treat. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and ideal for busy days when you need a quick, nutritious snack. Whether you’re preparing for a workout or just need a snack to get you through the day, these energy bars are sure to fuel you in a healthy way.