Name: No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (or cacao nibs); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1-2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for extra smooth texture); Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut or nuts for added texture

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No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars

No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars are a delicious and healthy treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nutritious benefits of chia seeds and oats. These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or even a post-workout bite. With just a few simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly, and the best part is that they don’t require any baking. They’re crunchy, chewy, and packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These no-bake bars are super easy to make and are a great way to satisfy your chocolate cravings in a healthier way. The combination of oats, chia seeds, and nut butter creates a filling snack, while the chocolate coating makes it a treat. They’re perfect for meal prepping, and they store well in the fridge for a grab-and-go option anytime you need a boost of energy.

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (or cacao nibs)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1-2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for extra smooth texture)
Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut or nuts for added texture

Directions

Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt. If you’re using shredded coconut or chopped nuts, add them to the bowl as well.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) together in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut oil, if using.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky but firm enough to hold together when pressed.
Add the Chocolate:
- Fold in the chocolate chips (or cacao nibs) until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Form the Bars:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan or a similar-sized dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly to create an even layer.
Chill:
- Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set. For quicker results, you can chill them in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
Serve:
- Once the bars have set and firmed up, cut them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy immediately or store them for later!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on the size. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and chilling time is 1 hour, so the whole process takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture for an extra chocolatey flavor.
Use different nut butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter for a different taste.
Stir in dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for added sweetness and texture.
Top the bars with a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars

Storage/Reheating

Store the No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Just make sure to use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Can I use rolled oats instead of instant oats?
Yes, rolled oats work perfectly in this recipe, providing a nice chewiness and texture.

Can I add protein powder to the mixture?
Absolutely! Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder will give these bars an extra protein boost. Just reduce the amount of oats slightly to balance the texture.

Conclusion

No-Bake Chocolate Chia Oat Bars are the perfect blend of sweet, healthy, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, they’re a great snack or breakfast option that’s both nutritious and delicious. These bars are full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them the ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick, wholesome bite!