No-Bake Chia Seed Energy Bars
These no-bake chia seed energy bars are the perfect grab-and-go snack for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups. They're made with a combination of chia seeds, almond milk, coconut milk, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract, and then packed with rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips (if you're feeling indulgent). The result is a chewy, flavorful bar that's packed with nutrients and will keep you going for hours.
Chia seeds have been a staple in the diets of Mesoamerican cultures for centuries, and for good reason. They're packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritional powerhouse. When combined with liquid, chia seeds form a gel-like substance that can be used as a thickener or binder in a variety of recipes. In this recipe, the chia seeds help to bind the other ingredients together and create a chewy texture without the need for baking.
No-Bake Chia Seed Energy Bars No-Bake Chia Seed Energy Bars No-Bake Chia Seed Energy Bars No-Bake Chia Seed Energy Bars
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, coconut milk, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  2. Stir in the oats, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips (if using).
  3. Press the mixture into an 8x8 inch baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
  4. Cut into bars and enjoy!
  5. Store the energy bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Why It Works
  • The combination of chia seeds, almond milk, and coconut milk creates a creamy, flavorful base for the energy bars.
  • The addition of honey provides sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together.
  • The peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps to keep the bars moist.
  • The rolled oats, chopped nuts, and dried fruit provide a variety of textures and flavors, and they also add a boost of fiber and protein.
  • The chocolate chips (if using) add a touch of sweetness and indulgence.