These No-Bake Nutty Oat & Apricot Protein Bars are an irresistible fusion of wholesome oats, naturally sweet dried fruits, and crunchy nuts, bound together with mashed banana for moisture and baked to a firm set before finishing with a drizzle of sugar-free dark chocolate. Inspired by energy bars and protein snacks that fuel active lifestyles, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into snackable bars perfect for breakfast on the go, post-workout refueling, or an afternoon pick-me-up. With no oven required until a brief 15-minute bake and minimal hands-on time, they’re as convenient as they are delicious.
Cooking Time
Preparation & Mixing: 20 minutes
Chilling & Shaping: 5 minutes
Baking: 15 minutes (oven at 180 °C/356 °F)
Chocolate Drizzle & Final Chill: 10 minutes + 2–3 hours refrigeration
Total Active Time: 50 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: Approximately 3 hours
Ingredients
Dry Base
1 cup (90 g) rolled oats
1 cup (100 g) raisins, soaked in hot water and rinsed
½ cup (50 g) walnuts, roughly chopped or pulsed
1 cup (100 g) chopped dried apricots, soaked in hot water and rinsed
Binder & Flavor
1 ripe banana, mashed until smooth
½ cup (ca. 60 g) almonds, roughly chopped or pulsed
1 Tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness and binding)
Coating & Finish
85 g (3 oz) sugar-free dark chocolate, melted (microwave or double-boiler)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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