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These crunchy energy and protein bars are super easy to make and make a great breakfast or snack any time of day. One bar provides 230 calories and 9 grams of protein with 3 grams of fiber.
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5 from 1 vote

Crunchy, Homemade Energy Bars

These crunchy homemade energy bars combine complex and fast-digesting carbohydrates with whey protein and healthy fats, making them a great way to get energy on the go. Take one with you for a quick breakfast, after-school snack or to fuel your next bike ride, hike or fitness competition.
Author: Heather Mangieri, RDN

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice cereal, dry
  • 1 cup raw oats
  • 1/2 cup whey protein, vanilla
  • 1/3 cup brown rice syrup
  • 1/4 cup almonds, diced
  • 1/3 cup almond butter
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup diced, dry fruit (any flavor)
  • 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line 8x8 pan with Parchment paper. Cut the paper long enough so that it lays over the sides.
  • Combine the rice cereal, oats, protein powder, cinnamon,salt and chopped nuts in a large bowl. Mix well and set aside.
  • Place the brown rice syrup, vanilla, almond butter and dried fruit pieces in a microwave safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds on high. Stir with a spoon until evenly blended.
  • Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients and use a sturdy spoon to mix. You can also use your hands to stir. Mix well so that everything is moist.
  • Once mixed, spread the mixture evenly into the pan. Use another piece of Parchment paper to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, then use a large spatula to press more. Press firmly around the edges and all areas of the pan. This is very important because if the mixture isn't pressed firm enough, the bars will crumble after cooking. Once pressed, remove the piece of Parchment paper you used to press. The mixture should appear tight, flat and even in the pan.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool. Once cooled, refrigerate for one to two hours, remove from the pan and cut into 8 even bars. Wrap bars with plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Recipe makes 8 bars.
  • Nutrition Facts (per bar): 230 calories, 30 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 12 g sugars, 9 g fat, 1.5 g saturated fat, 15 mg cholesterol, 120 mg sodium, 9 g protein.