These Nutty Energy Bars are the perfect healthy snack for any time of the day! Packed with a variety of nuts, seeds, and natural sweetness from dates and honey, they offer a satisfying, energy-boosting bite. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, these bars will keep you feeling full and nourished. Easy to make and filled with wholesome ingredients, they are an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- Cashews: 70 g (1/2 cup)
- Walnuts: 70 g (1/2 cup)
- Almonds: 70 g (1/2 cup)
- Pine nuts: 40 g (1/4 cup)
- Hazelnuts: 70 g (1/2 cup)
- Pumpkin seeds: 70 g (1/3 cup)
- Dates: 150 g (1 cup), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
- Oatmeal: 50 g (1/2 cup), chopped
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Honey: 160 ml (1/2 cup)
Directions
1. Toast the Nuts and Seeds: Start by lightly toasting the cashews, walnuts, almonds, pine nuts, and hazelnuts in a frying pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the nuts are fragrant and slightly golden. Set them aside to cool. In the same pan, toast the pumpkin seeds until they start popping. Set these aside as well.
2. Prepare the Dates: Drain the soaked dates and remove the pits. Chop them into small pieces for easy incorporation into the mixture.
3. Cook the Dates: In the same frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped dates and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This process will add a rich, natural sweetness to the bars.
4. Combine All Ingredients: Once the dates are softened, add the toasted nuts, seeds, and oatmeal to the pan. Season with salt and stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. Pour in the honey and continue stirring until everything is coated with the sticky honey and olive oil mixture.
5. Shape the Bars: Prepare a baking dish or mold by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. Transfer the mixture into the mold, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon to compact it tightly.
6. Chill and Cut: Allow the mixture to cool slightly at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up. Once the mixture is firm, use a wet knife to cut the mixture into bars or squares. Return the bars to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes before serving.
7. Store: Wrap each bar in cling film or parchment paper for easy storage and portability. Store the bars in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these Nutty Energy Bars as a quick and nutritious breakfast.
- Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying snack.
- Perfect as a post-workout snack to replenish your energy.
- Take them on the go for a healthy snack during travel or a busy day.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a more balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- Nut Variations: You can swap the nuts based on your preferences, or use whatever you have available. Consider adding peanuts, Brazil nuts, or macadamia nuts for variety.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer your bars sweeter or less sweet, adjust the amount of honey or replace it with maple syrup or agave syrup.
- Add-Ins: You can add a handful of dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, to increase the chewiness of the bars.
Nutritional Benefits
- Nuts and Seeds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, the nuts and seeds in these bars support heart health and provide sustained energy.
- Dates: Naturally sweet and rich in fiber, dates help with digestion and provide a natural source of energy.
- Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, oats can help lower cholesterol and keep you feeling full longer.
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness along with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no animal products.
- Gluten-Free: These bars are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: These bars do not contain any dairy, making them suitable for those avoiding lactose or following a dairy-free diet.
Conclusion
These Nutty Energy Bars are a delicious, healthy snack that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. The combination of nuts, seeds, oats, and dates provides a perfect balance of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day. Whether you’re fueling up for a workout, need an afternoon pick-me-up, or want a wholesome breakfast option, these bars are sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use other nuts instead of the ones listed in the recipe?
Yes, feel free to swap the nuts for your favorites! Almonds, cashews, or even pistachios work wonderfully in this recipe. -
How long do these bars last?
These bars will last about 1-2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. -
Can I make these bars without honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar result, though the flavor will vary slightly. -
Can I make these bars without using a stove?
Yes! You can skip the cooking step for the dates by simply soaking them in warm water for 10-15 minutes until soft, then blending them into a paste before mixing with the dry ingredients. -
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes! These Nutty Energy Bars are a great snack for kids, providing a healthy and filling alternative to sugary snacks.