A wholesome, festive treat to keep you energized all season long!
Makes approximately 12 bars.
Darlin’, if you’re looking for a treat that’s as healthy as it is festive, these Chia Seed Christmas Power Bars are just the thing! Packed with chia seeds, dried fruits, and a touch of holiday spice, they’re the perfect snack to fuel your holiday errands, gift wrapping, or cookie baking marathons. These bars are quick to make, full of flavor, and so good you’ll want to add them to every goodie tray.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats: The hearty base for these bars.
- ½ cup chia seeds: Tiny powerhouses of nutrition.
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries: Adds festive sweetness and color.
- ½ cup chopped almonds or pecans: For a satisfying crunch.
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness to bring it all together.
- ¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter: Creamy and rich.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A touch of holiday warmth.
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds cozy flavor.
- Pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness.
Supplies Needed
- Mixing bowl
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well mixed. - Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and almond butter for about 20 seconds until smooth and pourable. Stir to combine. - Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated and sticks together. - Press into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press it firmly into an even layer. - Chill to Set:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1-2 hours until firm. - Slice and Serve:
Use the parchment overhang to lift the mixture out of the pan. Slice into 12 bars and enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw as needed.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Toast the oats and nuts for extra depth of flavor.
- Tip 2: Add a drizzle of dark chocolate on top for a fancy finish.
- Tip 3: Swap out cranberries for dried apricots or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and omit the nuts for an allergy-friendly option.
- Tropical Bars: Add shredded coconut and dried pineapple for a sunny flavor.
- Spiced Delight: Mix in a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra holiday warmth.
FAQ
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the bars will have a softer texture.
Q: Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
Q: Can I add protein powder?
Yes, a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder will boost the nutrition without altering the flavor much.
Final Thoughts
These Chia Seed Christmas Power Bars are the perfect combination of nutrition and holiday flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, packing them in lunchboxes, or adding them to your Christmas goodie trays, they’re sure to keep you powered through the holidays. So grab your oats and chia seeds, darlin’, and let’s make some festive magic—one bar at a time!
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