These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a quick and healthy treat that combines the goodness of oats, nuts, and dried fruits with a touch of dark chocolate. Perfect for a nutritious snack or a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are easy to make and satisfy your cravings without baking.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: About 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 (or your choice for greasing)
Directions:
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 20×15 cm (8×6 inch) pan with coconut oil or your preferred oil.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oat flakes, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and the mashed banana. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with banana.
- Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly to compact the mixture evenly.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture and spread it evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pan 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:
- Enjoy as a quick snack or a nutritious dessert.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Compact the Mixture: Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together well after chilling.
- Use a Good Quality Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with no added sugar for a healthier option.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Walnuts: Add healthy fats and protein.
- Dried Fruits: Offer natural sweetness and additional nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Nuts: From walnuts.
- Contains Sugar: From raisins and dried apricots.
- Can Be Made Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and use seeds instead.
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 in the refrigerator 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 to prepare without the need for baking.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious oats, fruits, and nuts.
- Delicious Chocolate Layer: Adds a rich, indulgent touch without excessive sugar.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Conclusion:
These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a fantastic blend of healthy ingredients and indulgent chocolate. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or an on-the-go treat. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and natural sweetness of these easy-to-make bars.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of dried fruit?
Yes, feel free to substitute dried cranberries, figs, or dates for a different flavor. - Can I make these bars without nuts?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. - Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried apricots?
Fresh fruit is not recommended as it may make the mixture too moist. Stick with dried fruit for the best texture. - How do I make these bars vegan?
Use a plant-based alternative to coconut oil and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free. - What can I use instead of coconut oil?
You can use any neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, for greasing the pan and melting with the chocolate. - Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost. - How do I know if the bars are set?
The bars should be firm to the touch and the chocolate should be completely set before cutting. - Can I substitute the banana with another binding agent?
Yes, you can use applesauce or nut butter as an alternative to the banana. - How long will these bars stay fresh?
Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. - Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the bars will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar content accordingly.