Imagine a snack that's not just delicious, but also packed with nutrients, ready in minutes, and completely guilt-free. These Healthy Cocoa Nib Granola Bars are about to revolutionize your snacking game! Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone who craves a quick and nutritious treat, these bars are your ultimate solution. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and bursting with wholesome ingredients, they'll satisfy your hunger and your taste buds in one incredible bite.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup cocoa nibs
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup flaxseeds
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and flaxseeds, stirring to create an even base mixture.
- Warm almond butter and honey in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the warm almond butter and honey mixture over the oat and flaxseed blend, mixing thoroughly to ensure all dry ingredients are coated.
- Fold in cocoa nibs gently, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for approximately 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out using parchment paper overhang and cut into 8 equal rectangular bars.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better bar consistency.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the pan, use firm, even pressure to create compact bars that hold together perfectly.
- Chill for Success: Don't skip the refrigeration step - this is crucial for achieving the right texture and helping the bars set properly.
- Customize Your Bars: Feel free to swap almond butter with peanut butter or add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor complexity.
- Storage Hack: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go snacking and to maintain freshness.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bars can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
