Nutty & Fruity Energy Bars
Elevate your snack game with these Nutty & Fruity Energy Bars, inspired by the iconic Starbucks version. This wholesome recipe combines chewy rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, and a medley of sun-dried fruits and crunchy nuts, creating a satisfying energy boost for your active lifestyle. Perfect for breakfast on the go or as a midday pick-me-up, these bars are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, they are the ideal alternative to traditional pastries. Prepare a batch to share at your next gathering or keep them on hand for a quick, nutritious snack anytime.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Rolled oats
2 cups (Uncooked)
Crispy rice cereal
2 cups (Check for health-conscious options in the health food aisle)
Dried apricot
1 cup (Chopped)
Dried cranberries
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Sliced almonds
1/2 cup (Unroasted or lightly toasted)
Pecan halves
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Golden raisins
1/2 cup (Unsoaked)
Sunflower seeds
1/4 cup (Raw)
Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (Ground)
Brown sugar
1/4 cup (Packed)
Corn syrup or honey
1/2 cup (Use corn syrup for the best consistency)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (Pure, for flavor)
Peanut butter
1/2 cup (Smooth or crunchy, as preferred)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, dried apricot, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped pecans, golden raisins, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir well to ensure an even mix.
3
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and corn syrup (or honey). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, and let it boil for exactly one minute. This step is crucial for achieving a firm texture in your bars.
4
Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until completely combined and smooth.
5
Quickly pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir vigorously until everything is evenly coated.
6
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Wet your hands to prevent sticking and press the mixture down firmly into an even layer. This compression will help the bars hold their shape when cut.
7
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then use a sharp knife to cut into 18 evenly sized bars. Enjoy as a nutritious snack on their own or with a hot cup of coffee!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired the Nutty & Fruity Energy Bars recipe?
These wholesome bars are inspired by the iconic Starbucks version of fruit and nut energy bars.
What are the primary base ingredients for these bars?
The base consists of chewy rolled oats and crispy rice cereal for a perfect balance of texture.
How many bars does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 18 evenly sized energy bars.
What size pan is needed for this recipe?
You will need a 9x13 inch pan, prepared with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
Yes, you can use honey, though corn syrup is recommended for achieving the best firm consistency.
How long should the syrup mixture boil?
The mixture of brown sugar and syrup must boil for exactly one minute to ensure the bars set correctly.
What types of dried fruit are included in these bars?
The recipe calls for dried apricots, dried cranberries, golden raisins, and sunflower seeds.
What nuts are used in the Nutty & Fruity Energy Bars?
The recipe uses sliced almonds and chopped pecan halves for crunch and healthy fats.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Wetting your hands before pressing the mixture into the pan will prevent it from sticking to your skin.
Why is it important to press the mixture down firmly?
Firm compression helps the bars hold their shape and prevents them from crumbling when cut.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting the preparation.
Is there a specific way to prepare the dried fruit?
The dried apricots and dried cranberries should be chopped into smaller pieces before mixing.
When should I add the peanut butter to the mixture?
Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract immediately after removing the boiled syrup from the heat.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter based on your personal preference.
Are these energy bars a good breakfast substitute?
Yes, they are described as an ideal wholesome alternative to traditional breakfast pastries.
How should I cut the bars for the best results?
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan first, then use a sharp knife to cut them into 18 pieces.
What kind of oats are best for this recipe?
Uncooked rolled oats provide the best chewy texture for these energy bars.
Do these bars contain any spices?
Yes, the recipe includes half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for added flavor.
Is there a specific type of rice cereal I should buy?
The recipe recommends looking for health-conscious options in the health food aisle.
Are these bars high in fiber?
Yes, the combination of oats, nuts, and dried fruit makes them a fiber-packed snack.
What type of almonds should I use?
The recipe suggests using sliced almonds that are either unroasted or lightly toasted.
Can I use regular raisins instead of golden raisins?
Yes, while golden raisins are specified, regular raisins can be used as a substitute.
What is the purpose of the vanilla extract?
Pure vanilla extract is used to enhance the overall flavor profile of the bars.
Can I add different seeds?
While the recipe calls for sunflower seeds, you can experiment with pumpkin or chia seeds if desired.
Do I need to soak the raisins before using them?
No, the recipe specifies using unsoaked golden raisins.
How do I ensure the bars are easy to remove from the pan?
Lining the pan with parchment paper is the most effective way to ensure easy removal.
Can these bars be eaten immediately?
It is best to let them cool completely so they firm up before eating or cutting.
What makes these bars 'energy' bars?
They are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness to provide a satisfying energy boost.
Are these bars suitable for a midday snack?
Yes, they are perfect as a midday pick-me-up or a quick nutritious snack anytime.
Is the brown sugar packed or loose?
The 1/4 cup of brown sugar should be firmly packed for the correct measurement.