These Vegan No-Bake Oat Bars are the ideal healthy snack for any time of day. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, they offer a nutritious and delicious treat. Sweetened naturally with molasses, cane honey, or agave syrup, these bars are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to prepare and requiring no baking, they provide a quick and convenient energy boost.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (135 g) oatmeal
- 1/3 cup (40 g) mixed nuts (walnuts and almonds recommended)
- 1/4 cup (30 g) sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup (50 g) dried fruit (blueberries used here)
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) molasses, cane honey, or agave syrup
Directions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, mixed nuts, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Add the Sweetener:
- Pour the molasses, cane honey, or agave syrup over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated and the mixture starts to stick together.
- Shape the Bars:
- Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish, spreading it evenly and pressing down to compact the ingredients.
- Chill:
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once set, remove the mixture from the dish and cut it into 9 bars.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast on the go.
- Pack them as a healthy snack for work, school, or outdoor activities.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips:
- For added flavor, toast the nuts and seeds lightly before mixing.
- Use a combination of your favorite dried fruits to customize the flavor profile.
- Ensure the mixture is well compacted in the dish to help the bars hold their shape.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oatmeal: Provides fiber and essential nutrients.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add healthy fats, protein, and additional fiber.
- Dried Fruit: Contributes natural sweetness and antioxidants.
- Molasses, Cane Honey, or Agave Syrup: Offer a natural source of sweetness with added minerals and vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan and free from refined sugars.
- Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
Storage:
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months, and thaw before eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These Vegan No-Bake Oat Bars are easy to make and packed with nutrients.
- Perfect for busy lifestyles, providing a quick and healthy snack option.
- Customizable with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to suit your taste.
- Delicious and satisfying, making them a go-to choice for a nutritious treat.
Conclusion: Give these Vegan No-Bake Oat Bars a try for a tasty and nutritious snack you can feel good about. Their simple preparation and rich, natural flavors make them a great addition to your snack repertoire. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of these bars as a convenient and guilt-free treat!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, you can use any nuts you prefer or have on hand. - What other dried fruits can I use?
You can use raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates. - Can I use honey instead of agave syrup?
Yes, but note that the bars will no longer be vegan if you use honey. - How do I make these bars gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the bars are gluten-free. - Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?
Yes, adding a small amount of chocolate chips can enhance the flavor. - How long do these bars last?
They last up to 1 week in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer. - Can I use maple syrup instead of molasses?
Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute. - How do I store these bars for travel?
Pack them in an airtight container to keep them fresh while traveling. - Can I substitute the sunflower seeds with another seed?
Yes, pumpkin seeds or chia seeds can be used as alternatives. - What should I do if the mixture is too dry?
Add a bit more syrup or a small amount of water to help it stick together.