These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a quick, healthy, and delicious treat. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, they’re ideal for a nutritious snack or dessert without needing to turn on the oven. A topping of dark chocolate adds a rich finish, making these bars both satisfying and wholesome.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Ingredients:
- Oat Flakes – 80 g (1 cup)
- Raisins – 100 g (1/2 cup)
- Walnuts – 80 g (1/2 cup), chopped
- Dried Apricots – 100 g (1/2 cup), chopped
- Ripe Banana – 1 medium, mashed
- Dark Chocolate – 100 g (3.5 oz), chopped (use sugar-free if possible)
- Coconut Oil – 1 teaspoon (for greasing and melting with chocolate)
Directions:
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 20×15 cm (8×6 inch) pan with coconut oil.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oat flakes, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and the mashed banana. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
- Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the greased pan. Press down firmly to create an even layer.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture and spread it evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and the mixture is firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut into bars and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair these bars with coffee or tea for a satisfying snack.
- Enjoy as a healthy dessert or an on-the-go breakfast option.
Cooking Tips:
- Compact the Mixture: Press the mixture firmly to ensure it holds together well once chilled.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for sugar-free dark chocolate for a healthier version.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Walnuts: Provide healthy fats and protein.
- Dried Fruits: Add natural sweetness and a boost of nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Nuts: From the walnuts.
- Contains Sugar: From raisins and dried apricots.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Nutritional Facts (per bar, based on 12 bars):
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 12 g
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- No-Bake Convenience: Quick and easy without needing to bake.
- Healthy Ingredients: Full of oats, fruits, and nuts for a nutritious snack.
- Delicious Chocolate Layer: Adds an indulgent touch without excessive sugar.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Conclusion
These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a delicious combination of healthy ingredients and indulgent chocolate. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or an on-the-go treat. The chewy texture of the oats and fruits, combined with the crunch of walnuts and the rich chocolate topping, makes these bars irresistible and guilt-free.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other dried fruits?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, figs, or dates for variety. - Can I make these without nuts?
Yes, replace walnuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. - Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried apricots?
No, fresh fruit adds too much moisture. Stick with dried fruits. - How do I make this recipe vegan?
Ensure the chocolate is dairy-free and replace coconut oil with a plant-based alternative. - What can I use instead of coconut oil?
Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil will work. - Can I add protein powder?
Yes, a scoop of protein powder can be mixed into the oat mixture. - How do I know if the bars are set?
The bars should be firm to the touch, and the chocolate should be fully set before cutting. - What can I use instead of banana?
Applesauce or nut butter can be used as an alternative binding agent. - How long will these bars stay fresh?
They’ll last up to 1 week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. - Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the bars will be sweeter, so adjust sugar content accordingly.