These no-bake energy bars are a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make snack packed with natural sweetness from dates and dried apricots, combined with the crunch of sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a healthy treat, these bars are loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and a boost of vitamins. They’re great for busy days, kids’ lunches, or a post-workout snack. Plus, they require no baking, so you can whip them up in just minutes and let the fridge do the rest!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 50g sunflower seeds
- 50g pumpkin seeds
- 50g toasted sesame seeds
- 200g pitted dates
- 200g dried apricots (reserve some pieces for later)
- 80g walnuts
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon liquid vanilla
Directions:
- Toast the Seeds:
- In a pan, toast 50g of sunflower seeds and 50g of pumpkin seeds until golden.
- Separately, toast 50g of sesame seeds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Dried Fruits:
- In a food processor, blend 200g of pitted dates and 200g of dried apricots into a sticky paste.
- Set aside a few pieces of apricots to mix in later for added texture.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds with the date-apricot paste.
- Add 80g of chopped walnuts, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 teaspoon of liquid vanilla.
- Add the reserved apricot pieces for some chunky bites.
- Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
- Shape and Chill:
- Wrap the mixture in cling film or transfer it to a container, pressing down firmly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Serve:
- Once chilled, cut into squares or roll into balls, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Pair with your favorite smoothie for a post-workout snack.
Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee as a healthy treat.
Cooking Tips
For extra crunch, add some chia seeds or flaxseeds to the mixture.
Use a wet spatula or your hands to press the mixture into the bar shape more easily.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with fiber from dried fruits, promoting healthy digestion.
Full of healthy fats from seeds and nuts, supporting heart health.
Rich in antioxidants from apricots, which help boost your immune system.
Dietary Information
Dairy-free
Gluten-free
Vegan
No added sugar
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 5g
Storage
Store the energy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are quick to make and require no baking.
They are naturally sweetened, providing a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.
They’re a convenient, portable snack option for busy lifestyles.
You can customize them by adding your favorite seeds, nuts, or dried fruits.
Conclusion
No-bake seed and nut energy bars are the perfect snack for anyone looking for a nutritious, homemade option that’s both tasty and convenient. Whether you’re on the go, needing a pre- or post-workout snack, or just craving something healthy, these bars hit the spot. Their natural sweetness, coupled with the crunch from seeds and nuts, creates a delightful texture and flavor. Best of all, they’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for keeping your energy levels up throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of dried fruit?
Yes, you can substitute dried apricots with raisins, cranberries, or figs. - Can I use a blender if I don’t have a food processor?
Yes, but make sure to pulse the mixture in short bursts to avoid over-blending. - Are these bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a healthy, natural snack option for kids. - Can I skip toasting the seeds?
Toasting enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time. - What can I substitute for walnuts?
You can use almonds, pecans, or cashews instead of walnuts. - How can I make the bars firmer?
You can add a tablespoon of coconut oil or chill the bars longer for a firmer texture. - Are these bars suitable for a keto diet?
No, these bars are not keto-friendly due to the natural sugars in the dates and apricots. - Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Yes, adding dark chocolate chips can give the bars a delicious twist. - How long do they last in the freezer?
These bars can last up to 3 months in the freezer if properly stored. - Can I use honey instead of dates for sweetness?
Dates provide texture and sweetness, but you can use honey with more nuts to maintain consistenc