Oat-coconut bars:
Sometimes you just need a snack that fills you up, provides energy, and is still healthy. That's where these oat and coconut bars come in. They're vegan, sugar-free, no-bake, and ready in minutes, and are perfect for prepping ahead of time. Whether for the office, university, after a workout, or on the go – these bars are the ideal alternative to store-bought granola bars, which are usually full of sugar and additives.
Why Oat and Coconut Bars Are Perfect
Homemade snacks have several advantages:
No-bake: Quick to make, without a stove or oven.
Sugar-free: Sweetness comes from dates – no hidden sugar traps.
Meal-prep friendly: Once prepared, you have healthy bars ready for the whole week.
Healthy ingredients: Oatmeal provides energy, while coconut adds flavor and healthy fats.
Versatile: You can customize them to your liking – chocolatey, nutty, fruity.
Ingredients (makes about 6 bars)
100g rolled oats (fine or whole)
50g desiccated coconut
6 pitted dates (soft)
2 tbsp almond butter (alternatively peanut butter or cashew butter)
2 tbsp coconut oil
Optional: 30g sugar-free dark chocolate for coating
👉 Tip: If the dates are dry, simply soak them in warm water for 10 minutes.
Preparation
1. Blend the base: Blend the dates, almond butter, and coconut oil in a blender or food processor until smooth.
2. Add the dry ingredients: Add the oats and desiccated coconut to the mixture and mix thoroughly. This will form a slightly sticky dough.
3. Shape: Press the mixture into a small dish lined with parchment paper (e.g., a baking dish) and spread it evenly.
4. Chill: Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until the mixture is firm.
5. Cut & Enjoy: Cut into bars. Top with melted chocolate, if desired, or enjoy on its own.
Tips & Variations
High protein: Mix a spoonful of plant-based protein powder into the mixture.
Fruity: Finely chop dried apricots, cranberries, or raisins and add.
Crunchy: Chopped almonds or cashews add a crunch.
Exotic: A squeeze of lime juice and a dash of vanilla make the bars taste fresh and light.
Chocolaty: Cover with a thin layer of dark chocolate for extra indulgence, while still being healthy.
Why Oats & Coconut Are So Healthy
Oat flakes:
Rich in fiber, which keeps you full for longer.
Contains beta-glucans, which can lower cholesterol.
Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Coconut:
Not only adds flavor, but also healthy fats.
Contains minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
Makes the bars moist and digestible.
Dates:
Natural sweetness without refined sugar.
Contains plenty of fiber and minerals.
Give the mixture a binding effect and a pleasant texture.
Together, these ingredients create a snack that not only tastes good but also provides energy without sending blood sugar levels into a tailspin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do the oat-coconut bars keep?
They'll stay fresh in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about a week. Frozen, they'll keep for up to three months.
Can I make the bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free rolled oats, the recipe is 100% gluten-free.
Which nut butter is best?
Peanut butter adds a rich flavor, cashew butter is mild, and almond butter is somewhere in between—just experiment and see what you like best.
Can I make the bars for kids?
Absolutely! Since they contain no refined sugar, they're a healthy snack for children. Just make sure to grind the nuts finely if toddlers are eating them.
How do I make the bars crunchier?
Using whole-grain rolled oats instead of fine oats and stirring in some chopped nuts will give them more crunch.
Conclusion
These oat and coconut bars are a snack that no one should be without:
Quickly prepared and without baking
Sugar-free and vegan
Nutritious and filling
Perfect for on-the-go and meal prep
They're the healthy alternative to store-bought granola bars and can be customized – whether chocolatey, fruity, or high in protein.
Be sure to try them and find your favorite variation!
