Chewy Almond Butter Power Bars
These chewy almond butter power bars are no-bake, packed with oats and dried fruit, and ready in 15 minutes. Perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout energy boost.
These no-bake power bars get their chewy texture from a simple combination of almond butter and honey. The honey binds the oats and puffed grains together, while the almond butter adds richness. They're a quick snack you can make in under 15 minutes.
Reasons to Make These Homemade Protein Bars
- No oven required, just a saucepan and a fridge.
- You can swap in your favorite dried fruits or nuts.
- They stay chewy for days and pack well for hikes or lunchboxes.
Key Ingredients for Chewy Almond Butter Power Bars
- Almond butter: Use natural, unsweetened almond butter for the best flavor. Stir it well before measuring to avoid separation. If it's too thick, warm it slightly.
- Puffed brown rice cereal: This adds a light, crispy contrast to the chewy oats. You can substitute puffed millet or quinoa for variety.
- Dried cranberries and blueberries: Their tartness balances the sweetness from honey. Chop larger dried fruits like apricots into small pieces so they distribute evenly.
Kitchen Tools for Almond Butter Bars
- 8-inch square pan, for the right thickness
- Parchment paper, to lift the bars cleanly
- Small saucepan, to melt the almond butter and honey
- Medium mixing bowl, for combining dry ingredients
Tips for Making the Best No-Bake Energy Bars
Press the mixture firmly into the pan. Wet your hands to keep it from sticking, this helps you pack it tight and even. Refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting. If you're in a hurry, you can chill them in the freezer for 30 minutes.
Almond Butter Bar Variations to Try
Swap the almond butter for peanut or cashew butter for a different flavor. Trade the dried cranberries and blueberries for equal amounts of chopped dates or cherries. For more crunch, mix in two tablespoons of chia seeds or flax seeds. If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the honey to 1/3 cup.
How to Serve Almond Butter Power Bars
Eat them as a quick breakfast on the go or as a post-workout snack. They also work well crumbled over yogurt or paired with fresh fruit. For a sweeter treat, drizzle a little melted dark chocolate on top.
How to Store Leftover Power Bars
Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for up to a week. Lay a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Can You Freeze Almond Butter Power Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for longer storage. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating.
Source recipe: Chewy Almond Butter Power Bars (SnapChef ID dea29229-8e3e-4345-9e93-92444ccaa0d2). Nutrition is estimated per serving.
Recipe
Chewy Almond Butter Power Bars
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray an 8-inch square pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper. Heat the almond butter and honey together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring, until melted and combined.
- Combine the oats, cereal, quinoa or millet, almonds dried fruits and kosher salt in a medium size bowl. Pour the almond mixture int the dry moisture and stir until well combined. Transfer into the pan.
- Wet your hands and press the cereal bar mixture down until it's flat and even, packing it tightly. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Remove the mixture from the pan and cut into squares.
- recipe slightly adapted from Men's Fitness, December 2014
Notes
- Eat them as a quick breakfast on the go or as a post-workout snack. They also work well crumbled over yogurt or paired with fresh fruit. For a sweeter treat, drizzle a little melted dark chocolate on top.
- Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for up to a week. Lay a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Nutrition per serving, estimated
| Calories | 312 kcal | 16% DV |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 9 g | 18% DV |
| Fat | 13 g | 17% DV |
| Carbs | 45 g | 16% DV |
| Fiber | 5 g | 18% DV |
| Sodium | 95 mg | 0% DV |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values are estimates.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Can I use crunchy almond butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can. The texture will have more almond bits throughout, which adds a nice crunch. Just make sure the almond butter is well-stirred and natural (no added oils).
Can I replace the honey with maple syrup?
Maple syrup works, but the bars will be slightly less chewy and a bit softer. Use the same amount. You may need to refrigerate them longer for a firmer set.
How long do these bars need to set in the fridge?
At least one hour. For cleaner cuts, let them chill for 2 hours or even overnight. They'll also hold together better after a longer chill.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Fold in up to 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Dark or semi-sweet chips work best to balance the sweetness.
