No-Sugar Energy Bars Recipe

Directions

• • Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, raisins, finely chopped walnuts, and finely chopped dried apricots.

• • Mix the Ingredients:
    • Mash the banana until it becomes a smooth puree.
    • Add the mashed banana to the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.

• Bake the Bars:
  • • Line a 25×15 cm (10×6 inch) baking mold with parchment paper.
    • Spread the mixture evenly in the mold, pressing down firmly to ensure it’s compact.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

• Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
  • • While the bars are baking, melt the dark chocolate with the vegetable oil in a microwave or using a double boiler.
    • Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  • Pour the melted chocolate over the top of the bars and spread evenly.
• Set the Bars:
  • • Place the chocolate-covered bars in the fridge for 40 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
  • Once set, cut the bars into portions.

Serving Suggestions

• • Breakfast: Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick and nutritious start to your day.
  • Snacks: Perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon snack to keep your energy levels up.
  • Desserts: Serve them as a healthy dessert option after meals.

• On-the-Go: Pack them in lunchboxes or take them with you when you’re traveling or hiking.

Storage Tips

• • Room Temperature: Store the energy bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

• Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Tips for Perfect Energy Bars

• • Firmly Press the Mixture: Ensuring that the mixture is firmly pressed into the baking mold helps the bars hold together better after baking.
  • Even Chocolate Layer: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the bars for a consistent and smooth topping.
  • Chilling: Allowing the bars to chill properly ensures that the chocolate sets firmly, making it easier to cut the bars into portions without breaking.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Rolled Oats: A great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Oats also provide essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc.
  • Raisins: Packed with energy, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, raisins are a natural sweetener and provide a good source of antioxidants.

• • Walnuts: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, walnuts also offer important nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Dried Apricots: High in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, dried apricots contribute to overall health and well-being.
  • Banana: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the bars, while providing potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.

• Dark Chocolate: When chosen without sugar, dark chocolate is a powerful source of antioxidants and can improve heart health.

Variations

• • Nuts and Seeds: Substitute or add other nuts and seeds like almonds, pecans, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for additional nutrients and textures.

• Dried Fruits: Swap out raisins or apricots for dried cranberries, cherries, or figs for different flavors.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the bars.

FAQ

• • Can I make these energy bars gluten-free?
    Yes, simply use gluten-free rolled oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Can I skip the chocolate topping?
    Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version or don’t want the chocolate, you can skip this step. The bars will still be delicious and nutritious.
  • Can I use a different sweetener instead of banana?
    You can use unsweetened applesauce or pureed dates as an alternative to banana for natural sweetness and moisture.

Conclusion
These no-sugar energy bars are a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Easy to make, nutritious, and delicious, they offer a healthy snack option that you can enjoy any time of the day. With their natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while providing the energy you need. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty treats with your friends and family!