Vegan Nutty Energy Bars

When life’s demands leave you needing a quick, nutritious boost, these Vegan Nutty Energy Bars are here to save the day. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a burst of natural flavors, these bars provide the perfect blend of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. Whether you’re heading to the gym, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or simply looking for a satisfying snack, these energy bars have got you covered.

How Long Do Vegan Nutty Energy Bars Last and Can You Make Them in Advance?

Vegan Nutty Energy Bars are not only nutritious but also convenient, and they come with the added benefit of a decent shelf life. When stored properly in an airtight container or individually wrapped in parchment paper, these bars can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. This extended freshness makes them an ideal choice for meal prep and advance preparation. You can easily whip up a batch during a free afternoon and have a stash of energy-boosting snacks ready to go for your busy week ahead. This advance preparation not only saves you time but also ensures you always have a healthy and satisfying option on hand when hunger strikes. So, whether it’s for a quick bite during the day or a post-workout snack, these vegan energy bars can be your delicious, make-ahead solution.

Special Equipment for Crafting Vegan Nutty Energy Bars

Creating Vegan Nutty Energy Bars is a straightforward process that doesn’t demand any specialized equipment. You likely already have the basics in your kitchen. You’ll require a mixing bowl for combining the ingredients, a spatula or spoon for thorough mixing, a square baking pan (typically 8×8 inches) lined with parchment paper for setting the mixture, and a sharp knife for cutting the bars into your desired portions. No need for fancy gadgets or appliances, making this recipe accessible to all, whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting on your culinary journey. So, grab these common kitchen tools, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make these nutritious bars with ease.

Serving Size and Measurement for Vegan Nutty Energy Bars

The serving size for these Vegan Nutty Energy Bars can vary based on your preferences and dietary needs. Typically, a single bar is cut into portions measuring approximately 2×2 inches, resulting in 12 equally-sized servings from the entire batch. Each serving provides roughly 220 calories, making it a satisfying and energy-packed snack option. However, feel free to adjust the serving size according to your nutritional requirements. Whether you prefer smaller bites for a quick nibble or heartier portions to fuel your adventures, the versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor your servings to suit your individual needs and cravings.

Vegan Nutty Energy Bars

Recipe by Connor GoodaleCourse: SnacksDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories

220

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats

• 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)

• ½ cup dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries), chopped

• ½ cup natural nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)

• ⅓ cup maple syrup or agave nectar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• A pinch of salt

Directions

• Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, and dried fruits. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
• Warm Nut Butter and Sweetener: In a small saucepan, gently warm the nut butter and maple syrup (or agave nectar) over low heat. Stir until they are well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
• Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly, ensuring every oat and nut is coated with the mixture. The warmth will make it easier to combine.
• Press into Pan: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly and evenly. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon for this.
• Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture has set and firmed up.
• Cut into Bars: Once the mixture has set, remove the pan from the refrigerator. Lift the parchment paper to easily remove the block of energy bar mixture. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into bars of your desired size.
• Store: Individually wrap the bars in parchment paper or store them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together. Store in the refrigerator for freshness.

Notes

• Ingredient Variations and Add-Ins: To enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of your Vegan Nutty Energy Bars, consider experimenting with different ingredients and add-ins. Incorporate superfoods like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds for an extra dose of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. You can also mix in shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, or dried goji berries to add exciting textures and flavors.
• Sweetener Substitutions: While maple syrup and agave nectar are great natural sweeteners, you can opt for alternatives like date paste or mashed bananas for a different level of sweetness. Dates bring natural sweetness and contribute to the bar’s chewy texture, and mashed bananas add both sweetness and binding properties. Adjust the quantity to achieve your desired sweetness level.
• Customized Spices and Extracts: Customize the flavor of your energy bars by experimenting with different spices and extracts. Besides cinnamon, try adding nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for unique aromatic profiles. You can also switch up the vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract to diversify the taste of your bars.
• Nut Butter Choices: Don’t be afraid to switch up your choice of nut butter. While almond and peanut butter are popular options, cashew, hazelnut, or even sunflower seed butter can bring distinctive flavors to your bars. Different nut butters also offer varying textures and nutrient profiles, so feel free to explore based on your preferences.
• Texture and Consistency Adjustment: The texture of your energy bars can be adjusted by modifying the ratio of wet to dry ingredients. If you prefer a chewier bar, increase the amount of nut butter and sweetener. On the other hand, if you desire a firmer and crunchier texture, reduce the wet ingredients slightly. This customization allows you to create energy bars that align perfectly with your personal taste and preference.