Fuel Better bars are super easy to make, no need to bake. Energy treats for a week.
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: Optional toasting of oats and almonds (10 mins @400F)
Chill time: Freezer for 20 mins.
Makes 10-12 bars depending on how big you cut them.
Ingredients- The non-negotiables:
- Rolled Oats (1 1/2 cups)
- Dates (1 cup packed & pitted)
- Peanut Butter (1/4 cup)
- Almonds (1 cup, chopped)
- Maple Syrup (1/4 cup)
Step 1. Finely chop dates with a knife or food processor. If your dates are on the dryer side, it helps to soak them in warm water for 5-10 mins before chopping/blending.
Step 2. Chop Almonds with knife or food processor.
Step 3. Add dates, almonds, and oats to a mixing bowl.
Step 4. Heat peanut butter (1/4 cup) and maple syrup (1/4 cup) in a pan on low heat until it starts to bubble.
Step 5. Using a spatula (Mitch’s favorite kitchen utensil), add the mixture to the oats, dates & almonds. Mix thoroughly.
This is also when you would add any ‘bonus’ ingredients. If using chocolate chips, I recommend adding them after the mixture is cool so the chips stay solid.
Step 5. Add the mixture to a parchment paper lined baking dish. We use a 8″ x 10″ pan.
Cover with additional piece of parchment paper and pack down tightly using your hands, rolling pin or ceramic cup.
Don't be lazy with this step, the tighter you pack down the bars, the less likely they are to crumble!
Why do we call these Fuel Better Bars.
With their nutritional value and convenient storage, these have been my go-to fuel for my long runs and gruelling bike rides. Also, being a late-night snacker, I don’t feel guilty stealing one.. or two, before bed.
Nuts and oats promote better sleep. Nuts boost serotonin levels in the brain and are an excellent source of magnesium and tryptophan. As well as helping you feel full with their carbohydrates, oats are another natural source of melatonin.
Step 6. Freeze in pan for 20 mins.
Step 7. Cut into bars. Store in a container in the fridge or freezer. We prefer freezing them so they last longer.
Fuel for days!
