She Strengthens

Unbeatable Energy Bars: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Treat

When it comes to energy bars, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. Mass-market options often fall short on nutrition and flavor. But what if you could create your own energy bars that not only taste amazing but are also packed with wholesome ingredients?

A Recipe Born from Necessity

In 2009, a salmonella outbreak led to a recall of peanut butter products, including my favorite energy bars. This prompted me to take matters into my own hands and create a healthier alternative. The result was a recipe that’s more like a healthy candy bar than a diet food.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients:

• Crispy brown rice cereal
• Flax seed meal
• Wheat germ
• Brown rice syrup
• Nutritional information for each bar can be found at the end of this recipe.

Let’s Get Started!

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with butter. In a rimmed baking sheet, combine rice cereal, oats, almonds, wheat germ, coconut, and flax seed meal. Toss to combine and spread in an even layer. Bake for 12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the almonds are light golden brown.

The Magic Happens

In a medium saucepan, combine rice syrup, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir over medium-low heat until the mixture is smooth and the brown sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and add the cereal mixture, stirring until combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Adding the Finishing Touches

When the mixture is cool enough to handle, press it firmly into the pan with your hands. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and bake for 2-3 minutes, until the chips start to melt. Remove from the oven and spread the chocolate into an even layer. Let cool for 10 minutes before refrigerating until the chocolate is set.

Cut, Wrap, and Enjoy!

Remove the nutty oat slab from the pan and cut it into 10 bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 weeks.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 bar, 1.8oz/52g):

• Calories: 218
• Total Fat: 8.5g
• Saturated Fat: 2.4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0.8mg
• Sodium: 122mg
• Total Carb: 37.7g
• Fiber: 3.9g
• Sugars: 13.7g
• Protein: 4.8g