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

1. Line a 20 cm square baking dish with baking paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, shredded coconut and chocolate chips.
3. 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.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
5. 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.
6. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm.
7. 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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