Looking for an easy, lunchbox-friendly treat that comes together without turning on the oven? These no-bake cereal bars are chewy, chocolatey and packed with pantry staples. Perfect for busy school weeks, after-school snacks or make-ahead treats, they can also be adapted to suit nut-free households.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup crispy rice cereal
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup peanut butter or any nut-free butter (such as sunflower seed butter)
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Method
- Line a 20 cm square baking dish with baking paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, shredded coconut and chocolate chips.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter (or nut-free butter) and coconut oil. Stir until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly into an even layer. Tip: Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to compact the mixture tightly.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm.
- Once set, lift the slab out using the baking paper overhang, place on a cutting board and cut into bars or squares.
Freezer prep
Instead of placing the energy bites in the fridge, place the baking tray into the freezer to flash freeze for 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, move the frozen energy bites to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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