No-Bake Trail Mix Bars

As the trend toward healthy eating continues to gain momentum, more individuals are seeking snacks that not only satisfy their cravings but also align with their nutritional goals. In our fast-paced world, convenience is key; busy lifestyles often leave little room for elaborate meal prep. This is where the Crunchy No-Bake Trail Mix Bars come into play. These bars offer a delightful solution to the modern dilemma of healthy snacking, combining nutrition, taste, and ease of preparation in one delicious package.

Discover the delight of Crunchy No-Bake Trail Mix Bars, the ultimate healthy snack for your busy lifestyle. These bars are packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, nut butters, honey, and mixed nuts, making them a tasty and energizing treat. With minimal prep and endless customization options, you can easily tailor them to fit your dietary needs. Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost, they satisfy cravings while supporting a balanced diet.

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Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (dark or milk)

1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, roughly chopped)

1/2 cup dried fruit (options include raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots)

1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional for added nutrition)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Begin by lining an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on two opposing sides. This design will facilitate easy lifting of the bars once they have set.

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped mixed nuts, dried fruit, and mini chocolate chips. If you’re including chia or flaxseeds, add those in as well. Use a spatula to stir the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

Create the Wet Mixture: In a small saucepan, over low heat, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture continuously until it becomes smooth and slightly warmed, which will enhance its ability to bind to the dry ingredients.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until all components are evenly coated, forming a sticky mixture.

Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use your hands or the back of the spatula to press the mixture firmly and uniformly into the pan, ensuring the top is smooth and level.

Chill and Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until the mixture has hardened enough to be cut into bars.

Cut and Serve: Once the mixture is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into bars or squares according to your preferred size.

Store the Bars: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Alternatively, freeze for extended storage.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 2 hours (including chilling) | Makes 12 bars

Presentation Tips: Serve the bars stacked neatly on a platter, or wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming grab-and-go snack option!