No-Bake Chocolate Nut Energy Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almonds (roughly chopped)
• ¼ cup peanuts or cashews (optional)
• ⅓ cup raisins or dried cranberries
• ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping

• ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the base:
   In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped almonds, other nuts, and raisins.
2. Make the binding mixture:
   In a small saucepan on low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey until smooth. Stir in vanilla and salt.
3. Combine:
   Pour the warm mixture over the oat mixture and mix well. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Shape the bars:
   Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined square pan.
5. Add chocolate topping:
   Melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth. Spread evenly over the bars.
6. Chill:
   Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
7. Slice and serve:
   Cut into squares or bars. Top with extra nuts or dried fruit if desired.

Tip: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week for a quick healthy snack.