Swap Store-Purchased Sweet Bars for Homemade Nutritious Snacks: Nutrition Expert Reveals DIY Health Bar Recipe
In the pursuit of healthy and convenient snacking, these homemade snack bars are a fantastic choice for those seeking a natural energy boost. This recipe combines nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, oats, and honey to create protein- and fiber-rich bars that are perfect for a midday snack.
Here's a reliable method to whip up your very own homemade snack bars:
### Ingredients - 1 cup rolled oats - ½ cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios) - ¼ cup mixed seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds) - ½ cup honey (acts as the natural binder and sweetener) - ½ cup nut butter (smooth peanut butter or cashew butter) - Optional: ½ cup dried fruits or grated dry coconut for added texture and flavor - Optional spices: ½ tsp cardamom powder or cinnamon for aroma - Pinch of salt to enhance flavor
### Instructions 1. Prepare the nuts and seeds: Roughly chop the nuts and mix with the seeds for an even distribution. 2. Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine honey and smooth nut butter until smooth and well mixed. Adding vanilla extract or a pinch of cardamom powder is optional but adds flavor. 3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and any optional additions like dried fruit or grated coconut. 4. Combine wet and dry: Pour the honey and nut butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until all are coated and the mixture holds together. 5. Press the mixture: Line a baking pan (8x8 inches) with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture and press firmly and evenly into the pan to avoid air gaps—using wax paper and a flat object like the back of a measuring cup can help to press it down firmly. 6. Chill: Refrigerate the pressed mixture for at least 1 hour to allow it to set. 7. Cut into bars: Once firm, slice into bars or squares for easy snacking.
### Storage Store your bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer preservation. To avoid sticking, place wax paper between layers if stacking.
### Tips for Success - Use smooth nut butter for better binding; thick or dry nut butter makes the bars crumbly. - Chop nuts into smaller pieces to help the bars stick together better. - Press firmly when packing the mixture into the pan to prevent crumbling. - Chilling rather than baking helps retain moisture and chewiness, but some recipes bake bars briefly to bind ingredients—either works depending on preference.
This approach yields healthy, protein- and fiber-rich bars with natural sweetness, making them an ideal snack option. The recipe allows for flexibility to adjust ingredients to accommodate dietary needs or restrictions.
Homemade snack bars offer control over the quality and quantity of ingredients, making them a healthier option compared to store-bought versions. They are also more cost-effective and encourage people to make their own snack bars at home instead of buying processed options.
It's essential to consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information about the recipe's nutritional value and potential allergens. Nutritionist Palak Nagpal is sharing a homemade snack bar recipe on social media that is gaining popularity. Enjoy these wholesome homemade snack bars over several days, and remember, they require no cooking or baking expertise!
[1] Palak Nagpal, Nutritionist, @palak_nagpal_nutrition (Instagram) [2] "Healthy Homemade Snack Bars Recipe," EatingWell, 15 April 2021, www.eatingwell.com/recipe/280114/healthy-homemade-snack-bars-recipe/ [3] "No-Bake Energy Bars," BBC Good Food, 23 October 2020, www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/no-bake-energy-bars [4] "Healthy Homemade Snack Bars," Healthline, 20 March 2020, www.healthline.com/nutrition/homemade-snack-bars
This recipe, shared by nutritionist Palak Nagpal on social media, blends science and health-and-wellness by combining nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, oats, and honey to create protein- and fiber-rich bars that align with healthy-diets and offer a convenient energy boost, especially during fitness-and-exercise. The flexibility in adjusting ingredients for dietary needs or restrictions makes these homemade snack bars an attractive option for people seeking a natural, cost-effective, and healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.
