Are you tired of store-bought energy bars packed with mysterious ingredients? Get ready to transform your snack game with these irresistible homemade Cherry Walnut Peanut Butter Lara Bars! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with natural flavors, these bars are not just a treat – they're a nutritional powerhouse that will keep you energized, satisfied, and coming back for more. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or a health-conscious foodie, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup dried cherries
Instructions
- Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, walnuts, and dried cherries. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse, sticky consistency with small, uniform pieces.
- Add the rolled oats and peanut butter to the food processor. Continue processing until the ingredients form a cohesive, sticky dough that holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use clean hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, creating a compact and smooth surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the bars to firm up and become easier to cut.
- Remove the pan from the refrigerator and use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the entire block of mixture out of the pan.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the block into 12 equal rectangular bars.
- Wrap individual bars in parchment paper or plastic wrap for easy storage and portability.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or at room temperature for 3-4 days.
Tips
- Use Medjool dates for the best texture and natural sweetness – they're softer and more moist than other date varieties.
- For a smoother consistency, process ingredients in stages: first nuts and dried fruits, then add remaining ingredients.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water or a little extra peanut butter to help it bind.
- Ensure you press the mixture very firmly into the pan to create compact bars that hold together well.
- For variation, try toasting the walnuts lightly before processing to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe it between cuts for neat, even bars.
- Experiment with different nut and dried fruit combinations to create your own signature energy bar recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
