No-Bake Banana & Nut Energy Bars

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No-Bake Banana & Nut Energy Bars

A naturally sweet, wholesome, and energizing snack packed with fruit, oats, and nuts. Perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or a healthy treat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Yield: 8–10 bars

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 80 g (1 cup) oat flakes

  • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed

For the Mix-ins:

  • 100 g (1/2 cup) raisins

  • 100 g (1/2 cup) dried apricots, chopped

  • 80 g (1/2 cup) walnuts, chopped

For the Topping:

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit and Nuts

  1. Check the raisins and chopped apricots. If they are very dry, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel.

  2. Chop the walnuts into small pieces so the bars hold together more easily.

2. Make the Energy Bar Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana into a smooth paste, ensuring there are no large lumps.

  2. Add the oat flakes, raisins, chopped apricots, and walnuts to the banana.

  3. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until all ingredients are evenly coated with the banana. The mixture should be sticky and hold its shape when pressed.

3. Shape the Bars

  1. Line a small square or rectangular dish (about 8×8 inches or similar) with parchment paper.

  2. Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish.

  3. Use a spatula, the back of a spoon, or your hands (slightly dampened to prevent sticking) to press the mixture firmly and evenly into a flat layer.

4. Add the Chocolate Topping

  1. Break the dark chocolate into small pieces.

  2. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.

  3. Pour the melted chocolate over the oat mixture. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges, creating a smooth chocolate layer.

5. Chill and Slice

  1. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours, or until the chocolate has fully hardened and the base is firm.

  2. Once set, lift the block out using the parchment paper.

  3. Slice into rectangular bars with a sharp knife.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use a very ripe banana for natural sweetness and a smooth texture.

  • Lightly toast the walnuts for extra flavor if desired.

  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm for up to 1 week.

  • You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of nut butter for extra flavor and richness.

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