Description
This nutritious no-bake trail mix granola bar recipe combines wholesome ingredients like almond butter, nuts, seeds, oats, and a touch of maple syrup to create a delicious and healthy snack. Perfect for meal prep, these bars are easy to make without using an oven and are ideal for on-the-go energy boosts.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup almond butter (creamy, unsweetened)
- 3 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup + 2 Tbsp maple syrup
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups rolled oats (certified gluten free if needed)
- 1/2 cup raw almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup raw pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup hemp seeds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan if needed)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper that extends over the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine almond butter, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Ensure the almond butter is soft and creamy, warming it gently if necessary.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, hemp seeds, dark chocolate chips, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl and stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and sticky.
- Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Spread evenly with a spoon, then firmly press down using a flat, hard surface such as the back of a glass container to compact the mixture so it holds together well.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to let the bars set firmly.
- Cut and Serve: Remove the set mixture from the pan by lifting the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and slice into evenly sized bars using a sharp chef's knife.
Notes
- Softening the almond butter makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth texture.
- Firmly pressing the mixture into the pan is crucial for bars to stick together and hold their shape.
- These bars store well in the refrigerator for up to one week or can be frozen for longer storage.
- Use certified gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free version.
- Adjust the type of nuts and seeds based on your preference or availability.
- For a vegan option, ensure the chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
