Nutty High Protein Snack Bars
Highlighted under: Clean Eats
I love making these Nutty High Protein Snack Bars for a quick energy boost during my busy days. The combination of nuts and seeds provides not only a satisfying crunch but also high-quality protein that keeps me feeling full for hours. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors, thanks to the addition of honey and a hint of vanilla. I enjoy experimenting with different types of nuts, which makes each batch feel unique. These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a post-workout treat.
When I first decided to make these Nutty High Protein Snack Bars, I wanted something that would not only taste great but also power me through my afternoon slumps. The trick is using a mix of nuts, seeds, and oats in just the right proportions to achieve the perfect texture. I’ve found that pulsing the nuts in a food processor gives a varied bite; some larger pieces remain while others blend in for creaminess.
Another tip I learned along the way is to allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This ensures they hold together beautifully and don’t fall apart when you grab one for a snack. Trust me, the patience pays off!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Packed with wholesome nutrients that fuel your day
- Chewy and crunchy texture that satisfies
- Easily customizable with your favorite nuts and seeds
The Importance of Ingredients
Choosing high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in these Nutty High Protein Snack Bars. For instance, opt for natural almond butter without added sugars or oils to ensure a pure almond taste that complements the sweetness of honey. The mixture of nuts adds both flavor complexity and additional protein, while chia and pumpkin seeds introduce a pleasant crunch combined with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
The honey acts not only as a natural sweetener but also helps bind the ingredients together, making the final product chewy yet satisfying. If you're looking for a sugar-free alternative, consider using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce, but keep in mind that adjustments to baking time may be necessary, as these alternatives affect moisture and firmness.
Baking and Texture Tips
When baking your bars, ensure that they are spread evenly in the baking dish for uniform cooking. Press down firmly on the mixture using a flat spatula; this will help the bars hold together once cooled. If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the baking time slightly, checking for golden edges around the pan. A good indication that they are done is when they start to pull away from the edges of the baking dish.
As they cool, the bars will continue to firm up. It’s crucial to allow them to cool completely before slicing, as cutting them too early could lead to crumbly bars. If you find that your bars are too soft, consider baking them an additional 5 minutes next time. Using an adjustable oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the right temperature to prevent over-baking or under-baking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Nutty High Protein Snack Bars
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, combine almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
Combine all ingredients
Add oats, mixed nuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Press into the pan
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking dish and press it down firmly and evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
Cool and cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute different nut butters or sweeteners based on your preferences.
Customizing Your Bars
One of the best aspects of these bars is their versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or seeds based on personal preference; pecans and sunflower seeds can be excellent substitutes. You can also mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and chewiness. Just be cautious of adding too many additional ingredients, as this can affect the binding quality.
For a chocolate twist, consider folding in some dark chocolate chips after the mixture is well combined. This adds an indulgent flavor while still keeping the bars healthy. Remember to adjust the sweetness level by slightly reducing the honey if adding chocolate, as this will keep the flavor balanced.
Storage and Shelf Life
These Nutty High Protein Snack Bars can easily be made in advance and stored for busy days. Once cooled and cut, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them, which can help retain their freshness for up to two weeks.
For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or in a freezer-safe bag. They should maintain their quality for up to three months. Just be sure to label your bags with the date; when you're ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can use any type of nuts you prefer or have on hand.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness.
→ Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
→ Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars can be gluten-free.
Nutty High Protein Snack Bars
I love making these Nutty High Protein Snack Bars for a quick energy boost during my busy days. The combination of nuts and seeds provides not only a satisfying crunch but also high-quality protein that keeps me feeling full for hours. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors, thanks to the addition of honey and a hint of vanilla. I enjoy experimenting with different types of nuts, which makes each batch feel unique. These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a post-workout treat.
What You'll Need
Nutty High Protein Snack Bars
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
Add oats, mixed nuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking dish and press it down firmly and evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute different nut butters or sweeteners based on your preferences.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g