Energy bars are a convenient and tasty snack that can provide a quick boost of energy when you need it. Making your own energy bars at home can be a fun and rewarding experience.
To make homemade Energy Bars in an Air Fryer, combine Oats, Nut Butter, Honey, Dried Fruit, chopped Nuts, Protein Powder, and Vanilla Extract in a bowl. Press mixture into an air fryer-safe dish and cook at 330 °F (165.56 °C) for 10–12 minutes. Cool, cut into desired size, and store in an airtight container. Customize with different ingredients to suit your taste.
By making your own energy bars at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you’re consuming only the healthiest and most wholesome ingredients. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can quickly and easily make delicious, healthy, and custom energy bars right in your own kitchen.
Air Fryer Energy Bars
Course: Recipes4
servings10
minutes12
minutes350
kcalEnergy bars are convenient snacks or meal replacements that are typically made with a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats.
Ingredients
1 cup (0.24 l) Old-fashioned Oats
1/2 cup Nut Butter (such as Almond, Peanut, or Sunflower Seed)
1/4 cup Honey
1/4 cup Dried Fruit (such as Raisins, Cranberries, or Dates)
1/4 cup Chopped Nuts (such as Almonds, Walnuts, or Pecans)
1/4 cup Protein Powder (optional)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Directions
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nut butter, honey, dried fruit, chopped nuts, protein powder, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined, and the mixture becomes sticky.
- Press the mixture into an air fryer-safe dish, such as a loaf pan or baking dish. If you’re using a loaf pan, be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Air fry the bars: Place the dish into the air fryer and set the temperature to 330 °F (165.56 °C). Cook the bars for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on the bars while they cook to avoid over-browning.
- Cool and cut the bars: Once the bars are done cooking, remove the dish from the air fryer and let the bars cool completely in the dish. After they’ve cooled, slice the bars into the desired size and shape.
- Store the bars: Store your homemade energy bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to three months. Enjoy as a quick and healthy snack on-the-go, pre- or post-workout, or as a satisfying pick-me-up any time of day.
Recipe Video
Notes
Use Parchment Paper: If using a loaf pan, line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.Store Bars properly: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to three months.Use High-quality Honey: Look for high-quality honey, such as raw or local honey, for the best flavor and health benefits.
Customizing Your Energy Bars
The great thing about making your own energy bars is that you can customize them to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Try different nut butters: Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond, peanut, or sunflower seed, to find your favorite flavor.
- Mix up the dried fruit: Mix and match different dried fruits, such as raisins, cranberries, or dates, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Add spices and extracts: Try adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or extracts such as vanilla or almond, for extra flavor.
- Use different types of oats: Try using quick oats or steel-cut oats for a different texture.
- Make them gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats to make gluten-free energy bars.
Benefits
Healthier than store-bought: Homemade energy bars are a healthier option compared to store-bought bars, which often contain added sugars, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.
Customizable: You can customize your energy bars by choosing ingredients that fit your dietary needs and taste preferences.
Convenient: Energy bars are an easy and convenient snack to have on hand, especially for busy days or post-workout fuel.
Cost-effective: Making your own energy bars can be more cost-effective than buying them at the store.
Fun to make: Making your own energy bars can be a fun and creative activity, especially if you involve the whole family.
Versatile: Energy bars can be made in a variety of flavors and textures, and can be adapted to suit different dietary restrictions and preferences.
Questions You Might Have
Can I use other types of Oats besides Old-fashioned Oats?
Old-fashioned oats work best in this recipe, as they hold together better than other types of oats, but you can try using quick oats if that’s all you have.
Can I use different types of Nut Butter?
Yes, you can try using almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter for different flavor combinations.
What type of Honey should I use?
Use high-quality honey, such as raw or local honey, for the best flavor and health benefits.
Is it necessary to add Protein Powder?
No, it’s optional. However, adding protein powder can help boost the protein content of your bars and make them a great post-workout snack.
How long will the bars last in the fridge or freezer?
The bars will last up to a week in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer.
What should I use to line the Dish to prevent Sticking?
Use parchment paper if using a loaf pan, or spray an air fryer-safe dish with cooking spray.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your own energy bars is a fun and rewarding experience that can provide you with a quick and healthy snack whenever you need it.
By using an air fryer, you can quickly and easily make delicious and custom energy bars that are sure to become a staple in your home. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the many benefits of making your own energy bars today!
