These No-Bake Nutty Oatmeal Energy Bars with Chocolate Topping are a delicious, nutritious, and convenient snack option. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, dried fruit, and nuts, these bars provide a satisfying blend of natural sweetness, crunch, and chewiness. With a simple chocolate topping and a touch of dried raspberries for garnish, these bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, a post-workout boost, or a mid-day snack. Not only are they free from added sugars and artificial ingredients, but they’re also easy to customize based on personal preference.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Bars:
Oatmeal: 80g (2.8 oz)
Raisins: 100g (3.5 oz), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
Plums (prunes): 120g (4.2 oz), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
Peanuts: 30g (1 oz), chopped
Walnuts: 30g (1 oz), chopped
Cashews: 40g (1.4 oz), chopped
Bananas: 2, pureed
For the Chocolate Topping:
Sugar-Free Chocolate: 150g (5.3 oz)
Coconut Oil: 2 teaspoons
Dried Raspberries: For garnish
Steps to Make No-Bake Nutty Oatmeal Energy Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Soak the Dried Fruit
Place the raisins and plums (prunes) in a bowl with cold water and let them soak for about 15 minutes. This will soften the fruit, making it easier to blend and ensuring a chewier texture in the bars.
Chop the Nuts
Roughly chop the peanuts, walnuts, and cashews into small pieces. If desired, you can toast the nuts briefly in a pan to enhance their flavor.
Puree the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly until they become a smooth puree. This will act as a natural sweetener and binder for the bars.
Step 2: Create the Bar Mixture
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, chopped nuts, soaked raisins, soaked plums (prunes), and pureed bananas. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture starts to stick together.
Form the Bars
Line a rectangular baking dish (8×8 inch or similar) with parchment paper. Transfer the bar mixture to the dish, spreading it out evenly. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press the mixture down firmly, ensuring a compact layer. This will help the bars hold together once they’re set.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
Melt the Chocolate
In a small saucepan, melt the sugar-free chocolate with the coconut oil over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, you can melt them in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Spread the Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the bar layer in the dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly over the surface. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle dried raspberries on top for a hint of color and additional flavor.
Step 4: Set the Bars
Chill in the Refrigerator
Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours, or until the bars have firmed up and the chocolate has fully set.
Slice and Serve
Once firm, remove the bars from the dish using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut them into individual bars or squares.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 160 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fats: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 7g (from natural sources)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe without bananas?
Yes, you can replace bananas with about 1/3 cup of unsweetened applesauce or date paste, which will still add moisture and sweetness.
Q2: What other types of nuts or seeds can I use?
Feel free to swap any of the nuts with almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or even chia seeds to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
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