In a world filled with sugary snacks and artificial additives, finding a wholesome, homemade alternative can feel like a breath of fresh air. Enter sugar-free energy bars—a simple yet incredibly satisfying solution to fuel your busy day. Whether you need a pre-workout boost, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a healthy addition to your kid’s lunchbox, these energy bars check all the boxes. Packed with natural sweetness, nutrient-dense ingredients, and easy-to-follow instructions, this guide will take you through every step to create the ultimate energy bar at home.
Ingredients for Sugar-Free Energy Bars
The Base:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (120 g) unsweetened almond flour or coconut flour
- 1/2 cup (120 g) natural peanut butter or almond butter
Natural Sweeteners:
- 1/2 cup (120 g) mashed ripe bananas (approximately 2 medium bananas)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened applesauce
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Mix-Ins (Customize to Your Taste):
- 1/3 cup (50 g) chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/3 cup (50 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup (40 g) sugar-free chocolate chips or cacao nibs
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula
- 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking dish
- Parchment paper