Nut & Seed Bars – Heart Healthy Greek

why make this recipe

Nut & Seed Bars are a great snack choice for anyone looking for a healthy treat. They are packed with nuts and seeds that provide protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This recipe is easy to make and offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Plus, they are excellent for on-the-go snacking or a quick energy boost.

how to make Nut & Seed Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1/2 cup mixed seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: dried fruits or dark chocolate chips for added flavor

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, mixed seeds, and rolled oats.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter over low heat until melted and smooth.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
6. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow the bars to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Once cooled, cut into bars or squares.

how to serve Nut & Seed Bars

You can serve Nut & Seed Bars as a snack on their own, or pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a more filling breakfast. They are great for lunch boxes or as post-workout snacks. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee too!

how to store Nut & Seed Bars

Store Nut & Seed Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They also freeze well, so you can keep them in the freezer for up to three months.

tips to make Nut & Seed Bars

• Make sure to pack the mixture tightly in the baking dish so the bars hold together well.
• Experiment with different nuts and seeds to find your favorite combination.
• If you prefer your bars sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup as needed.

variation

You can customize these bars easily. Try adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for sweetness, or sprinkle in some dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts and seeds?
Yes! Feel free to use any nuts and seeds you like. Just ensure they are chopped into smaller pieces if they are large.

What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup is a great alternative to honey if you want a vegan option.

Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars can be gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Nut & Seed Bars

Nut & Seed Bars are a healthy and delicious snack, packed with nuts and seeds for protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Easy to make, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, ideal for on-the-go snacking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1/2 cup mixed seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup Use maple syrup for a vegan version.
• 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: dried fruits or dark chocolate chips For added flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, mixed seeds, and rolled oats.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter over low heat until melted and smooth.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
6. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Allow the bars to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Once cooled, cut into bars or squares.

Notes

Store Nut & Seed Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. Make sure to pack the mixture tightly in the baking dish to ensure the bars hold together well.