Energy Bars Recipe

Energy Bars Recipe freshly cut into squares.

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These no-bake Energy Bars need just 5 ingredients and taste like a candy bar—but they’re packed with protein and fiber!

Prep Time15

Chilling Time1

Total Time1 15

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American, Vegetarian

Keyword: Energy Bars Recipe

Servings: bars

Author: Chelsea Lords

Cost: $4.52

Equipment

Ingredients

Energy Bars

3 cups quick oats see note 1
1 cup creamy peanut butter I love Skippy
1/2 cup honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup miniature M&M’s

Optional Chocolate Topping

1/3 cup chocolate chips milk, semi-sweet, or dark
1/4 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

US - Metric

Instructions

Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. These binder clips are great for holding it in place!
Combine “Energy Bars” ingredients in a very large bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer (mixing on low speed) for this step. Check for consistency (see note 2).
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using the bottom of a 1-cup measuring cup, firmly press the mixture into the pan to form an even and tightly compressed layer.
Optional Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips and oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in bursts of 15 seconds, stirring between each burst until melted. Transfer to a plastic zip-top bag and seal without air. Cut off the tip and pipe over the bars until you’ve used all the chocolate.
Chill in fridge until set, about 1 hour. Use overhang to remove. Use a very sharp and hot knife to make cuts into bars (run knife under hot water and dry in between each cut).

Notes

Note 1: You’re relying on quick oats for their moisture absorption. Don’t use regular or old-fashioned oats.

Note 2: Consistency Adjustments: Depending on the moisture of your ingredients, you may need to slightly adjust the amounts. If it’s too dry and crumbly, incorporate more peanut butter or honey. If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more oats, but keep in mind, oats will continue to absorb moisture over time, firming up the mixture.

Storage: Store in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 1 week. Or keep in an airtight bag in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.

Nutrition