No-Bake Energy Bars

Featured in: Seasonal & Holiday Recipes

These bars blend rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, and optional chia seeds, combined with natural peanut butter and honey for a rich, no-bake treat. The mixture is pressed into a pan and refrigerated to set, making a convenient, wholesome snack ideal for any time. Nut substitutions and flavor variations like chocolate chips offer flexibility to suit dietary needs and preferences.

Updated on Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:50:10 GMT
Golden, textured No-Bake Energy Bars: A simple snack cut into squares, ready to enjoy. Pin It
Golden, textured No-Bake Energy Bars: A simple snack cut into squares, ready to enjoy. | rapidtongs.com

No-Bake Energy Bars are the perfect quick and wholesome snack for busy days. Combining rolled oats, crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and natural sweeteners, these bars provide a satisfying, on-the-go boost without requiring any baking. Their chewy texture and hearty ingredients make them ideal for anyone looking to fuel up with minimal effort and maximum nutrition.

Golden, textured No-Bake Energy Bars: A simple snack cut into squares, ready to enjoy. Pin It
Golden, textured No-Bake Energy Bars: A simple snack cut into squares, ready to enjoy. | rapidtongs.com

These bars are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you need a mid-morning pick-me-up, a post-workout snack, or a nutritious addition to your lunchbox, they deliver flavor and energy. The simple preparation means you can whip up a batch anytime with pantry staples.

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients
    • 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
    • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
    • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
    • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
    • 2 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
  • Wet Ingredients
    • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
    • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds (if using). Mix well.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

This no-bake recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Press the mixture firmly to avoid crumbly bars, and chill thoroughly to ensure they hold together well. Use parchment paper generously to remove bars cleanly without mess.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make the bars nut-free. You can also add mini chocolate chips or substitute different dried fruits to vary the flavor. For vegan bars, replace honey with maple syrup for a plant-based alternative.

Serviervorschläge

Enjoy these energy bars as a grab-and-go snack at work, a quick hike bite, or a healthy treat between meals. Pair them with a cup of tea or your favorite smoothie for a balanced mini-meal.

Pin It
| rapidtongs.com

With its simple ingredients, minimal preparation, and no baking needed, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking healthy, homemade energy bars. Perfectly portable and packed with nutrition, they make fueling your day both easy and delicious.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare these bars?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional hour of chilling time to help the bars set properly.

Can I use different nuts or seeds in this snack?

Yes, you can swap almonds, walnuts, or pecans, and add chia seeds for extra nutrition or use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

Is baking required for these bars?

No baking is necessary. The bars firm up fully after refrigeration, making them a quick and easy snack option.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup to make the bars suitable for a vegan diet.

How should these bars be stored?

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.

No-Bake Energy Bars

Wholesome bars combining oats, nuts, and dried fruits for a quick, energizing snack.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
0
Complete Time
15 minutes
Created by Lily Turner


Skill Level Needed Easy

Cuisine Style International

Makes 12 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-Free, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Dry Ingredients

01 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
02 ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
03 ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
05 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

Wet Ingredients

01 ½ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
02 ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 Pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

Prepare Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 02

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, shredded coconut, and chia seeds if using.

Step 03

Warm Wet Ingredients: Gently heat peanut butter and honey or maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.

Step 04

Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the warmed wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until evenly coated.

Step 05

Press Mixture: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared pan and firmly press down with a spatula or hands to form an even, compact layer.

Step 06

Chill Until Firm: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the bars are set and firm.

Step 07

Slice and Store: Lift the set mixture from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What You'll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Spatula
  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Allergy Alerts

Always review every item for allergens. If unsure, talk to a healthcare expert.
  • Contains nuts and peanuts if using peanut butter or nuts.
  • Contains coconut, which may cause allergenic reactions in some individuals.
  • Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure a gluten-free product.
  • Check ingredient labels carefully for severe allergy concerns.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Use these numbers as a helpful reference, not as personal health advice.
  • Calorie Count: 185
  • Fat Content: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Protein Amount: 5 g