These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a quick and healthy treat that combines the goodness of oats, nuts, and dried fruits with a touch of dark chocolate. Perfect for a nutritious snack or a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are easy to make and satisfy your cravings without baking.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: About 12 bars
Ingredients:
Oat Flakes: 80 g (1 cup)
Raisins: 100 g (1/2 cup)
Walnuts: 80 g (1/2 cup), chopped
Dried Apricots: 100 g (1/2 cup), chopped
Ripe Banana: 1 medium, mashed
Dark Chocolate: 100 g (3.5 oz), chopped (use sugar-free if possible)
Coconut Oil: 1 teaspoon (or your choice for greasing)
Directions:
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 20×15 cm (8×6 inch) pan with coconut oil or your preferred oil.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oat flakes, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and the mashed banana. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with banana.
Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly to compact the mixture evenly.
Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture and spread it evenly.
Chill: Refrigerate the pan for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and the mixture is firm.
Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut into bars and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy as a quick snack or a nutritious dessert.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat.
Cooking Tips:
Compact the Mixture: Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together well after chilling.
Use a Good Quality Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with no added sugar for a healthier option.
Nutritional Benefits:
Oats: Provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Walnuts: Add healthy fats and protein.
Dried Fruits: Offer natural sweetness and additional nutrients.
Dietary Information:
Contains Nuts: From walnuts.
Contains Sugar: From raisins and dried apricots.
Can Be Made Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and use seeds instead.
Nutritional Facts (per bar, based on 12 bars):
Calories: 160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 12 g
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
No-Bake Convenience: Quick and easy to prepare without the need for baking.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious oats, fruits, and nuts.
Delicious Chocolate Layer: Adds a rich, indulgent touch without excessive sugar.
Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Conclusion:
These no-bake oat, raisin, and apricot bars are a fantastic blend of healthy ingredients and indulgent chocolate. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or an on-the-go treat. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and natural sweetness of these easy-to-make bars.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other types of dried fruit?
Yes, feel free to substitute dried cranberries, figs, or dates for a different flavor.
Can I make these bars without nuts?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried apricots?
Fresh fruit is not recommended as it may make the mixture too moist. Stick with dried fruit for the best texture.
How do I make these bars vegan?
Use a plant-based alternative to coconut oil and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.
What can I use instead of coconut oil?
You can use any neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, for greasing the pan and melting with the chocolate.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
How do I know if the bars are set?
The bars should be firm to the touch and the chocolate should be completely set before cutting.
Can I substitute the banana with another binding agent?
Yes, you can use applesauce or nut butter as an alternative to the banana.
How long will these bars stay fresh?
Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the bars will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar content accordingly.