No-Bake Energy Bars

Featured in: Quick Snacks & Starters

These no-bake energy bars combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and shredded coconut with natural peanut butter and honey to create a quick, wholesome snack. Simply warm the wet ingredients, mix with the dry, press into a pan, and chill until firm. Perfect for easy snacking, they provide sustained energy without any baking. Customize with different nuts or dried fruits, or swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan option.

Updated on Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:30:23 GMT
Golden-brown squares of no-bake energy bars, packed with oats, nuts, and fruit for a quick snack. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown squares of no-bake energy bars, packed with oats, nuts, and fruit for a quick snack. | chromespoon.com

Discover the perfect balance of convenience and wholesome nutrition with these No-Bake Energy Bars. Crafted from simple, natural ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits, these bars offer a quick and satisfying boost without any oven time. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, need a mid-afternoon snack, or want a healthy treat on the go, these bars fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.

Golden-brown squares of no-bake energy bars, packed with oats, nuts, and fruit for a quick snack. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown squares of no-bake energy bars, packed with oats, nuts, and fruit for a quick snack. | chromespoon.com

Beyond their delicious taste, these bars are a testament to simple, clean eating. The combination of crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruit, and hearty oats delivers texture and flavor in every bite. By pressing the mixture firmly and chilling it, the bars turn firm and easy to carry—ideal for busy days or outdoor adventures.

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients
    • 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
    • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
    • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
    • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
    • 2 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
  • Wet Ingredients
    • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
    • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan
Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds (if using). Mix well.
3. Warm wet ingredients
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Combine mixtures
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
5. Press into pan
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
6. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Slice and store
Lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Make sure to press the mixture firmly in the pan to ensure the bars hold together well after chilling. Using parchment paper with an overhang will make removing and slicing much easier. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little extra nut butter or honey to bind.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make the bars nut-free. Feel free to add mini chocolate chips or try different types of dried fruits to vary the flavor. For vegan bars, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Serviervorschläge

Enjoy these bars as a quick snack between meals, a pre- or post-workout energy boost, or pack them for hiking, school lunches, and travel. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or a refreshing smoothie.

Close-up of hearty, gluten-free no-bake energy bars, perfect for a healthy and satisfying bite. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of hearty, gluten-free no-bake energy bars, perfect for a healthy and satisfying bite. | chromespoon.com
Product image
Prep ingredients, rinse produce, and dry dishes efficiently with a built-in workstation designed for streamlined cooking.
Check price on Amazon

With these no-bake energy bars, you have a versatile, tasty, and nourishing snack that fits almost any dietary preference and schedule. Keep experimenting with different nuts, fruits, and flavors to make this recipe your own go-to energy fix.

Recipe FAQs

How do I make these bars nut-free?

Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut or almond butter and ensure nuts are omitted or replaced with seeds.

Can I substitute the sweeteners used?

Yes, maple syrup can replace honey to accommodate vegan preferences or different flavor profiles.

How long should I chill the mixture?

Refrigerate for at least one hour until the bars are firm and easy to cut.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They are gluten-free if certified gluten-free rolled oats are used.

What variations can I try with these bars?

Try adding mini chocolate chips, swapping different dried fruits, or mixing various nuts to customize flavor and texture.

What tools do I need for preparation?

A mixing bowl, saucepan, spatula, an 8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper, and a sharp knife for cutting the bars.

No-Bake Energy Bars

A wholesome snack with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, perfect for on-the-go energy in minutes.

Prep time
15 minutes
0
Overall time
15 minutes
Recipe by Marissa Cook


Skill level Easy

Cuisine International

Portion size 12 Portions

Dietary info Vegetarian-friendly, Without dairy, No gluten

What You'll Need

Dry Ingredients

01 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if required)
02 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
03 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
05 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

Wet Ingredients

01 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
02 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 Pinch of salt

Directions

Step 01

Prepare pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 02

Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the oats, nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds if using until well incorporated.

Step 03

Warm wet ingredients: Gently heat peanut butter and honey or maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.

Step 04

Incorporate mixtures: Pour the warmed wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until evenly coated.

Step 05

Press mixture into pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly to form an even, compact layer.

Step 06

Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the bars are firm.

Step 07

Cut and store: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 12 bars and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Needed equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Allergy Notes

Double-check your ingredients for allergens and always talk to your doctor if you're not sure.
  • Contains nuts and peanuts (if using peanut butter and nuts).
  • Contains coconut, a tree nut allergen for some individuals.
  • Use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free preparation.
  • Check ingredient labels thoroughly if severe allergies are a concern.

Nutrition details (per portion)

Use these nutrition facts for reference—they don't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Energy (kcal): 185
  • Fat content: 9 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 23 grams
  • Proteins: 5 grams