These No-Bake Nutty Chocolate Energy Bars are a rich, creamy, and healthy dessert made without refined sugar or baking. Packed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, topped with a velvety cashew cream, they’re perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or energy boost.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Chocolate Base:
- 150 g (5 oz) cashews, soaked in boiling water for 30–40 minutes
- 100 g (3.5 oz) oats
- 60 g (2 oz) dates, pitted
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (homemade or store-bought)
- 50 g (1.7 oz) roasted peanuts, ground into paste (optional for peanut butter)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (hazelnuts, almonds), roasted and peeled
- 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (to taste)
- 1 tbsp dried orange zest or fresh orange peel
- For the Cashew Cream Topping:
- 150 g (5 oz) soaked cashews (from above)
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) vegetable milk (almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 40 ml (3 tbsp) coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Base
- Soak the cashews by pouring boiling water over them and letting them sit for 30–40 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Roast peanuts, hazelnuts, and almonds in a dry pan until golden. Peel the skins if necessary.
- In a food processor, blend the oats, dates, cocoa powder, and peanut butter until sticky and combined. Add roasted nuts, seeds, and chopped dried fruits (apricots and cranberries).
- Sprinkle cinnamon, ginger, and orange zest. Blend until the mixture sticks together. Adjust texture by adding more dates if too dry.
- Step 2: Press and Chill the Base
- Line a baking pan or dish with parchment paper.
- Press the chocolate mixture firmly into the base, spreading it evenly.
- Place in the freezer while preparing the topping.
- Step 3: Prepare the Cashew Cream Topping
- Blend the soaked cashews, vegetable milk, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if necessary to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Spread the cashew cream evenly over the chocolate base. Smooth with a spatula.
- Step 4: Freeze and Set
- Freeze for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Once set, cut into squares or bars.
- Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- Garnish with additional nuts, dried fruits, or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.
- Store in the freezer and remove 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a perfect snack.
- Top with fresh berries for added freshness.
- Sprinkle extra cocoa powder or cinnamon before serving.
- Serve as mini bites at parties or gatherings.
- Pair with a smoothie for a nutritious breakfast.
Cooking Tips
- Use a high-speed blender or food processor to achieve a smooth cashew cream.
- For nut-free options, substitute sunflower seeds or tahini.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more dates or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Roast nuts lightly to enhance flavor without burning.
- Store leftovers in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cashews: Rich in healthy fats, magnesium, and protein.
- Oats: Provide fiber and keep you full longer.
- Dates: Natural sweeteners loaded with fiber and antioxidants.
- Nuts and Seeds: Offer healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-free (ensure oats are certified gluten-free).
- Dairy-free.
- No refined sugar.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required—quick and easy preparation.
- Healthy and naturally sweetened—perfect for guilt-free indulgence.
- Rich in nutrients—great for energy and satiety.
- Versatile—can be customized with your favorite nuts and seeds.
- Make-ahead friendly—ideal for storing and meal prepping.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Nutty Chocolate Energy Bars with Cashew Cream Topping are a decadent yet healthy treat, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without refined sugars. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a burst of flavor and energy in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute dates? Yes, use dried figs, prunes, or raisins.
- How long can these bars last in the freezer? They can be stored for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Can I skip the cashew cream topping? Yes, you can leave it out or replace it with melted chocolate for a different topping.
- What can I use instead of peanut butter? Almond butter, cashew butter, or tahini are great alternatives.
- Can I add protein powder? Yes, add 1–2 tablespoons of protein powder for a protein boost.
- Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw? Raw cashews provide a smoother texture, but roasted cashews work too.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! It’s naturally sweet and nutrient-packed, perfect for kids.
- Can I make it nut-free? Replace nuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or shredded coconut.
- What can I use instead of coconut oil? You can substitute it with melted butter or avocado oil.
- How can I make the cashew cream thicker? Reduce the amount of milk or refrigerate the mixture before spreading it.