Posted by Alena Colborn on Thursday, April 26, 2018 in News.

By Megan Toomey and Kati Pittman
2017-2018 Dietetic Interns

These healthy, homemade energy bars are nutritious and versatile. They’re great for a light breakfast or a post-workout snack. 

Directions

1. Melt creamy peanut butter and honey together in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute

Tip: To keep from burning, take out of the microwave at 30 seconds and mix

Nutrition: Peanut butter is high in protein which helps repair muscles and omega- 6 fatty acids which reduce inflammation

2. Add old fashioned rolled oats and crisp rice cereal to the melted mixture

Tip: Add slowly while mixing to prevent clumping

Nutrition: Oats and rice cereal are excellent sources of fiber which lowers the risk for heart disease, aids in gut function, and may reduce blood cholesterol levels

3. Add freshly diced strawberries and dark chocolate chips to the mixture

Tip: Save some strawberries to top the bars off with for a boost of flavor and color

Nutrition: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants which is great for a boosting your immune system.  Dark chocolate is also a powerful source of antioxidants which reduce inflammation

4. Pour ingredients out on to a baking sheet and press into a large square, making sure that the edges are firm and rounded. Sprinkle strawberries on top (optional)

Tip: Use gloves or run your hands under warm water to avoid sticking while forming the square

5. Freeze for 20 to 30 minutes, cut into bars, and enjoy

Tip: Use a pizza cutter instead of a knife to save time

Tip: Freeze longer for a bar that is firmer – especially if you want the bars to last a long time

Nutrition Analysis

Per Bar: 199 calories, 8.5g fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 76mg sodium, 30g carbohydrates, 2.2g fiber, 18g sugar, 4.3g protein

Ingredients

Serves: 12

-1/2 cup peanut butter

-1/2 cup honey

-1 ½ cups dry oats

-1 ½ cups crisp rice cereal

-1/2 cup chopped strawberries

-1/2 cup dark chocolate chips