Toasted Oat Energy Bars – No-Bake Recipe

Ingredients

• • 150 g (5.3 oz) toasted oats
  • 60 g (2 oz) raisins
  • Spices to taste (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla powder)

• • 1 pinch of salt
  • 60 g (2 oz) mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts), roughly chopped
  • 30 g (1 oz) dried cranberries, chopped

• • 200 g (7 oz) roasted peanuts, ground into paste (or peanut butter)
  • Melted dark chocolate (optional, for decoration)
  • Frozen cherries or dried oranges (optional, for serving)

Directions

• • Step 1: Toast the Oats
    • Toast the oats in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely.

• • Step 2: Prepare the Dried Fruits and Nuts
    • Chop the raisins and cranberries.
    • Roughly chop the mixed nuts for added texture.

• • Step 3: Make Peanut Paste
    • Roast the peanuts in a pan until aromatic.
    • Blend them in a food processor until they form a smooth paste, or use store-bought peanut butter.

• • Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
    • In a large bowl, combine the toasted oats, raisins, cranberries, chopped nuts, salt, and spices.
    • Add the peanut paste and mix thoroughly until the mixture sticks together.

• • • Line a baking dish with plastic wrap or parchment paper.
    • Press the mixture firmly into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
    • Place it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

• Step 6: Slice and Decorate
  • • Once chilled, slice into bars or squares.
    • Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for extra flavor.
  • Decorate with frozen cherries or dried oranges if desired.

5 Serving Suggestions

• • Enjoy as a quick breakfast with yogurt and fruit.
  • Pair with a cup of green tea or coffee for a midday snack.
  • Serve as an energy bar before or after workouts.

• Pack as a lunchbox snack for school or work.
• Use as a dessert substitute for a healthier sweet option.

Cooking Tips

• • Toast the nuts and seeds for extra flavor.
  • If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, or warm water.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer shelf life.

• Add protein powder for a post-workout snack boost.
• Experiment with spices like ginger, cardamom, or cocoa powder for unique flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oats: Rich in fiber for digestion and energy.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
  • Dried Fruits: Provide natural sweetness and essential vitamins.

• Peanuts: High in protein for muscle recovery and sustained energy.

Dietary Information

• • Vegan (when using dairy-free chocolate).

• Gluten-free (use certified gluten-free oats).
• Refined sugar-free.

Nutritional Facts (Per Bar)

• • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g

• • Fat: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 7 g