No-Bake Oat, Raisin, and Apricot Bars Recipe

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:

  1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 20×15 cm (8×6 inch) pan with coconut oil.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oat flakes, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and the mashed banana. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
  3. Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the greased pan. Press down firmly to create an even layer.
  4. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  5. Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture and spread it evenly.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and the mixture is firm.
  7. 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:

  1. Can I use other dried fruits?
    Yes, you can use dried cranberries, figs, or dates for variety.
  2. Can I make these without nuts?
    Yes, replace walnuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  3. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried apricots?
    No, fresh fruit adds too much moisture. Stick with dried fruits.
  4. How do I make this recipe vegan?
    Ensure the chocolate is dairy-free and replace coconut oil with a plant-based alternative.
  5. What can I use instead of coconut oil?
    Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil will work.
  6. Can I add protein powder?
    Yes, a scoop of protein powder can be mixed into the oat mixture.
  7. 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.
  8. What can I use instead of banana?
    Applesauce or nut butter can be used as an alternative binding agent.
  9. How long will these bars stay fresh?
    They’ll last up to 1 week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
  10. Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
    Yes, but the bars will be sweeter, so adjust sugar content accordingly.