Dark Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Bars
Dark Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Bars. Youve gotta try these naturally sweetened oatmeal cookie bars, layered with dark chocolate almond butter. Vegan.
Dark Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Bars. Youve gotta try these naturally sweetened oatmeal cookie bars, layered with dark chocolate almond butter. Vegan.
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Serving Size 1 1 bar (0g)
- Sodium 0 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0 g
- Calories 0 calories
Step-by-step
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, flour, maple syrup, 1/2 cup almond butter, coconut oil, vanilla and cinnamon. The mixture should be sticky and clump together easily. If it's too crumbly, add a bit more nut butter. If too wet, add in more oats/flour.
- Transfer half of the mixture into the baking pan and spread evenly. Use a piece of parchment paper to press down the mixture evenly, or a small rolling pin (or your fingers!).
- Place in the fridge and let harden for at least 30 minutes.
- After the mixture has hardened in the fridge, melt the chocolate chips along with the remaining 1/4 cup almond butter in a double boiler or small pot over boiling water until creamy and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate on the oat layer and refrigerate until hardened, about 1 hour.
- Remove the chocolate layer from the fridge and place the remaining oat mixture on top. Crumble the remaining dough all over the chocolate and press together.
- Place back in the fridge to harden, at least 30 more minutes.
- Slice into 9-12 bars (depending on what size bar you like).
- The bars will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 6 months in the freezer.
My Go-To Energy Boost: Dark Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Bars
As a busy fitness model, finding quick, healthy, and delicious snacks is crucial. My days are packed with training, photoshoots, and meetings, leaving little time for elaborate meal prep. That's where these Dark Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Bars come in. They're the perfect combination of satisfying and nutritious, providing sustained energy without the sugar crash. I love that they're naturally sweetened, packed with healthy fats and fiber from the oats and almonds, and of course, that decadent dark chocolate! They're so easy to make, I often whip up a batch on the weekend to keep me fueled throughout the week. The best part? They’re completely vegan, making them a treat everyone can enjoy.
I’ve always been passionate about healthy eating, but it wasn't always easy. There was a time when I struggled to balance my busy life with nutritious choices. Fast food and processed snacks were my go-to, often leading to energy slumps and leaving me feeling sluggish. But as I started prioritizing my fitness goals, I realized the importance of fueling my body with wholesome foods. This recipe isn't just about a delicious treat; it's about embracing a healthy lifestyle that supports my active lifestyle. These bars are a testament to the fact that healthy can be absolutely delicious. They're incredibly versatile, too. I often add different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to change up the flavor profile – goji berries, chopped pecans, or even a sprinkle of sea salt are fantastic additions.
The process is remarkably simple, which is a major plus when you're short on time. The no-bake element is a real game-changer, meaning I can avoid lengthy baking sessions. The layers of crunchy oats, creamy almond butter, and rich dark chocolate provide a delightful textural contrast. The bars are also incredibly portable, making them perfect for taking to the gym, a photoshoot, or even on a quick trip. Keeping a batch in my fridge or freezer ensures I always have a readily available, healthy snack. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try – it’s a true game-changer for anyone looking for a convenient and satisfying way to incorporate more whole foods into their diet. The rich flavor of dark chocolate combined with the wholesome goodness of oats and almonds creates a truly irresistible combination.
Beyond their convenience and taste, these bars also offer a fantastic sense of accomplishment. Knowing I created a healthy and delicious treat from scratch is incredibly rewarding. It’s a little act of self-care, proving that prioritizing health doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in my overall well-being. This recipe, therefore, represents more than just a snack; it’s a symbol of my commitment to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize your sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your preference. You can also substitute with other liquid sweeteners like agave nectar or honey.
- Get creative with nuts and seeds: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt, cardamom, or other spices to complement the chocolate and almond flavors.
- Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats and flour.
- Portion control: Cut the bars into smaller sizes for portion control and to make them last longer.
