Nutty Delight Energy Bars
These Nutty Delight Energy Bars are a fantastic, healthy snack option for anyone on the go, inspired by Eating Well magazine and optimized for superior taste and variety. These bars combine the wholesome crunch of nuts and seeds with the natural sweetness of dried fruits, making them a versatile treat that can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're gearing up for a workout or need a quick energy boost during the day, these bars have got you covered. Store them in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and enjoy them chilled for a refreshing snack!
16
Servings
195
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry roasted peanuts
1/2 cup
natural almonds
1/2 cup (chopped)
sunflower seeds
1/2 cup
raisins
1 cup
dried fruit
1 cup (choice of type)
oats
2 cups
crispy brown rice cereal
1 cup
puffed wheat cereal
1 cup
vanilla protein powder
1 scoop
cinnamon
1 teaspoon
toasted wheat germ
1/4 cup
natural-style chunky peanut butter
1/4 cup
almond butter
1/4 cup
Splenda brown sugar blend
1/2 cup
agave nectar
1/2 cup
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
2
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: dry roasted peanuts, chopped natural almonds or sunflower seeds, raisins or other chosen dried fruit, oats, crispy brown rice cereal, puffed wheat cereal, protein powder, cinnamon, and wheat germ. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
3
3. In a separate microwaveable bowl, combine the natural-style chunky peanut butter, almond butter, Splenda brown sugar blend, and agave nectar.
4
4. Microwave the mixture on high for 1-2 minutes until it begins to bubble. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and add the vanilla extract, stirring until well incorporated.
5
5. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the combined dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6
6. Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking pan and press down firmly using the back of a spoon or your fingers (coat your fingers with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
7
7. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for around 1 hour or place it in the refrigerator for quicker setting.
8
8. Once firm, cut into 16 equal bars and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
30g
Carbs
5.25g
Protein
3
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutty Delight Energy Bars?
They are a healthy, customizable snack bar made with nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and grains, inspired by Eating Well magazine.
How many calories are in one Nutty Delight Energy Bar?
Each bar contains approximately 195 calories.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 16 equal-sized energy bars.
What are the main protein sources in these bars?
The protein comes from peanuts, almonds, peanut butter, almond butter, and one scoop of vanilla protein powder.
Are these energy bars vegetarian?
Yes, these bars are classified as vegetarian-friendly.
What size baking pan should I use?
You should use a 13x9 inch baking pan coated with cooking spray.
Can I substitute the almonds?
Yes, you can use sunflower seeds instead of chopped natural almonds if preferred.
What type of dried fruit is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for raisins, but you can use any dried fruit of your choice.
How do I prepare the wet ingredients?
Combine peanut butter, almond butter, Splenda brown sugar blend, and agave nectar in a bowl and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until bubbling.
How should these bars be stored?
It is recommended to store them in the refrigerator to help them maintain their shape and enjoy them chilled.
What prevents the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Coating your fingers with cooking spray before pressing the mixture into the pan prevents sticking.
How long do the bars need to set?
Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, or place them in the fridge for faster setting.
Is there any fiber in these bars?
Yes, each serving contains approximately 3 grams of fiber.
What cereals are included in the mix?
The recipe uses crispy brown rice cereal and puffed wheat cereal.
Can I use a different type of protein powder?
The recipe suggests vanilla protein powder, but you can likely substitute with other flavors that complement nuts and fruit.
Do these bars require baking?
While the instructions mention preheating an oven, the steps focus on a microwave method and refrigeration for setting, making them a largely no-bake style recipe.
What is the carbohydrate content per bar?
Each bar contains about 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Can I use regular sugar instead of Splenda?
The recipe specifies a Splenda brown sugar blend, but you can experiment with regular brown sugar if preferred.
What provides the sweetness in this recipe?
The sweetness comes from agave nectar, Splenda brown sugar blend, raisins, and dried fruits.
What is the purpose of toasted wheat germ?
Wheat germ adds a nutritional boost and a slightly nutty flavor to the dry ingredient mix.
Can I use honey instead of agave nectar?
Agave nectar is listed, but honey is a common substitute in similar energy bar recipes.
How much protein is in each bar?
Each energy bar provides approximately 5.25 grams of protein.
Are these bars suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they are an excellent option for meal prep as they can be made in bulk and stored.
Can I use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky?
The recipe calls for natural-style chunky peanut butter for texture, but creamy will work if you prefer a smoother consistency.
What spices are used?
The recipe uses one teaspoon of cinnamon for flavor.
Are these bars good for workouts?
Yes, they are tagged as a pre-workout snack due to their balance of carbs and protein.
Can I add other seeds?
Yes, the recipe is highly customizable and can accommodate various nuts and seeds.
Is vanilla extract used?
Yes, one teaspoon of vanilla extract is stirred into the warm peanut butter mixture.
How do I ensure even distribution?
Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl before adding the warm liquid mixture.
What kind of oats should I use?
The recipe lists 2 cups of oats; typically, rolled oats work best for the texture of energy bars.