Welcome, friends! Today, we’re diving into a recipe for No-Sugar Energy Bars that are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. These bars are perfect for those looking for a quick, nutritious snack without any added sugar. Made with oats, nuts, dried fruits, and dark chocolate, they offer a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a pre-workout snack, these bars are an ideal choice.
Preparation Time:
Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Oatmeal: 80 g (2.8 oz) / 1 cup
- Raisins: 100 g (3.5 oz) / ¾ cup
- Walnuts: 80 g (2.8 oz) / ¾ cup, finely chopped
- Dried Apricots: 100 g (3.5 oz) / ⅔ cup, finely chopped
- Banana: 1, ripe
- Dark Chocolate (Sugar-Free): 160 g (5.6 oz) / 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil: 1 teaspoon
Directions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Finely chop the walnuts and dried apricots.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, raisins, chopped walnuts, and dried apricots. Mix well.
- Prepare the Banana Mixture:
- Peel and thoroughly mash the ripe banana into a smooth puree.
- Add the mashed banana to the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Transfer to Baking Pan:
- Line a 25×15 cm (10×6 inch) baking pan with parchment paper.
- Press the mixture evenly into the pan and compact it firmly.
- Bake the Bars:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake the bars for 20 minutes, until golden brown and firm.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- Melt the dark chocolate, adding 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil for smoothness.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the baked bars.
- Finish the Bars:
- Cool the bars in the pan for 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 40 minutes until the chocolate sets.
- Cut into pieces and enjoy!
Bullet Points
- Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast with coffee or a smoothie.
- Perfect as a pre-workout snack with a banana or nuts.
- Serve as a healthy dessert with yogurt or almond butter.
- Cooking Tips:
- Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness.
- Customize with add-ins like chia seeds or coconut.
- Adjust baking time for different pan sizes.
- Nutritional Benefits:
- Oatmeal: High in fiber and antioxidants.
- Raisins: Rich in iron and potassium.
- Walnuts: Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Dried Apricots: Packed with vitamin A and iron.
- Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free (with certified gluten-free oats).
- Vegan (check chocolate to confirm).
- Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freeze for longer storage, up to three months.
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules.
- No added sugar, relying on natural sweetness.
- Highly customizable to suit your tastes.
- Ideal for various occasions: breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Conclusion
These No-Sugar Energy Bars are a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy and delicious snack. They combine the natural sweetness of fruits with the crunch of nuts and the richness of dark chocolate. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re on the go or looking for a treat to share, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute the banana with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can use applesauce or mashed sweet potato as a substitute.
- Can I use a different type of nut?
- Absolutely! Almonds, pecans, or cashews work well in this recipe.
- Is it necessary to add the chocolate topping?
- No, the bars are delicious on their own, but the chocolate adds a nice indulgent touch.
- How can I make these bars nut-free?
- Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
- Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried?
- It’s best to stick with dried fruits as fresh fruits can add too much moisture and affect the texture.
- What can I use instead of vegetable oil in the chocolate coating?
- Coconut oil is a great alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor.
- How long do the bars need to chill before they’re ready?
- Chill the bars for at least 40 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
- Can I make these bars gluten-free?
- Yes, just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.
- Are these bars suitable for children?
- Yes, they are a great healthy snack for kids, but be cautious with nut allergies.
- Can I add protein powder to these bars?
- Yes, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content, just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients as needed.