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Homemade Nut and Cranberry Energy Bars


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 bars 1x

Description

These homemade nut and cranberry energy bars are the perfect snack for anyone looking for a healthy, naturally sweet treat. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds, these bars provide a satisfying crunch. The dates add natural sweetness while the peanut butter binds everything together for a chewy, flavorful bite. Dried cranberries bring a touch of tartness, balancing out the flavors perfectly. These no-bake bars require minimal preparation and are ideal for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or an afternoon energy boost.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Ingredients

  • 75 grams (1/2 cup / 2.6 oz) almonds
  • 50 grams (1/2 cup / 1.8 oz) walnuts
  • 50 grams (1/2 cup / 1.8 oz) pumpkin seeds
  • 250 grams (1 and 2/3 cups / 8.8 oz) dates
  • Cold water (for soaking)
  • 100 grams (1/3 cup / 3.5 oz) peanut butter
  • 40 grams (1/4 cup / 1.4 oz) dried cranberries
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Toast Nuts and Seeds:

    • Heat a dry pan over medium heat.
    • Toast the almonds for about 2 minutes.
    • Add the walnuts and pumpkin seeds, cooking for another 2 minutes while stirring occasionally.
    • Remove from heat and let the toasted nuts and seeds cool on a plate.
  • Prepare the Dates:

    • Place the dates in a bowl and cover them with cold water.
    • Let them soak for about 15 minutes to soften.
    • Remove the pits from the dates and drain any excess water.
  • Blend Ingredients:

    • In a food processor or high-speed blender, add the soaked dates and peanut butter.
    • Blend until a smooth, thick paste forms.
    • Add the toasted nuts and seeds, then pulse a few times to chop them lightly while keeping some texture.
  • Add Cranberries:

    • Soak the dried cranberries in cold water for 15 minutes, then drain.
    • Add the cranberries and a pinch of salt to the mixture in the blender.
    • Pulse lightly to combine, making sure some chunks remain for texture.
  • Form the Bars:

    • Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper.
    • Use a spoon or spatula to press it down into an even, compact layer.
    • Cover with another piece of parchment paper and freeze for 2-3 hours to set.
  • Cut and Store:

    • Remove the mixture from the freezer and cut into bars of your desired size.
    • Wrap each bar in cling film or store them in an airtight container.
    • Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep bars refrigerated for optimal freshness, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
  • Texture: For a crunchier bar, add whole seeds or chopped nuts instead of blending them fully.
  • Stickiness Fix: If the mixture is too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
  • Sweetness Level: Adjust the number of dates based on your preference for sweetness.
  • Blending Tip: If your food processor struggles, add a few drops of water to help blend the ingredients smoothly.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12
  • Carbohydrates: 20
  • Protein: 5