If you are someone who always seems to be on-the-go and have little time for breakfast, healthy breakfast bars can be a lifesaver. Not only are they a convenient breakfast option, but they can also be a tasty and nutritious way to start your day. Making your own healthy breakfast bars is surprisingly easy and can save you money in the long run. We have curated a list of the best healthy breakfast bar recipes that will help you kick-start your day with energy and deliciousness.
The Benefits of Eating Healthy Breakfast Bars
Breakfast is known to be the most important meal of the day. It’s the one that breaks the overnight fasting period and provides our body with the necessary energy to start the day. However, with our busy lifestyles, it might be difficult to find the time to prepare a healthy and nutritious breakfast. That’s where healthy breakfast bars come in. Eating healthy breakfast bars has become a popular option for a quick and easy breakfast, especially for those who are always on the go.
Increases Energy
Eating healthy breakfast bars is an effective way to boost your energy levels. These bars contain carbohydrates that are essential for energy production. They are often made with whole grains, nuts, and dried fruits, which provide a slow release of energy throughout the morning. Unlike sugary cereals or pastries, healthy breakfast bars won’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash, leaving you feeling sluggish and tired.
Furthermore, many breakfast bars contain protein, which is an essential macronutrient that provides the body with amino acids to build and repair tissues. Protein also slows down the digestion of carbohydrates, providing a sustained release of energy throughout the day. As a result, healthy breakfast bars can contribute significantly to your daily energy intake.
Promotes Weight Loss
Healthy breakfast bars can also aid in weight loss. The fiber and protein present in these bars can help you feel fuller for longer periods, reducing your hunger and snacking throughout the day. Additionally, some breakfast bars include ingredients such as chia seeds or flax seeds, which contain healthy fats and can help reduce food cravings.
Moreover, preparing healthy breakfast bars yourself allows you to control the ingredients and reduce the sugar and fat content. Store-bought breakfast bars often contain added sugar, preservatives, and other artificial ingredients. By making your own, you can personalize the recipe to meet your dietary preferences and avoid unhealthy ingredients that can hinder your weight loss goals.
Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Eating a healthy breakfast has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Healthy breakfast bars can provide a nutrient-dense meal that helps maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the risk of these diseases.
Whole grains, nuts, and seeds are ingredients often used in healthy breakfast bars, and they contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for a healthy immune system. Furthermore, research shows that a diet that includes nuts and seeds can lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. Healthy breakfast bars provide a convenient and simple way to incorporate these essential nutrients into your daily diet.
What to Look for in a Healthy Breakfast Bar
Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day as it fuels the body with energy and nutrients to start your day on the right track. However, many people struggle to find time to prepare breakfast in the morning due to their busy schedules. This is where breakfast bars come in handy as they provide a quick and convenient breakfast option for those who are always on the go.
With the rise in popularity of breakfast bars, there are countless options in the market, making it hard to choose a healthy one that meets your dietary needs. When choosing a healthy breakfast bar, here are the key things to look out for:
Key Ingredients to Look for in a Healthy Breakfast Bar
When scanning through the ingredient list of a breakfast bar, it’s important to ensure there are several whole food ingredients. Here are some of the ingredients to look for:
- Whole-Grains: Look for bars that contain whole-grains such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice as they are a good source of fibre and provide slow-burning energy.
- Nuts: Nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fibre, which help you to feel satiated, satisfied, and full of energy so that you can power through until lunchtime. Almonds, walnuts, cashews, and peanuts are some of the nuts commonly used in breakfast bars.
- Natural Sweeteners: Some of the healthy natural sweeteners used in breakfast bars include honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and dates.
- Healthy Fats: Look for bars that contain healthy sources of fats such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, coconut oil, and avocado, as these will help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
What to Avoid in a Breakfast Bar
While some ingredients are essential to a healthy breakfast bar, others can compromise your health goals. Avoid breakfast bars that contain:
- High Sugar Content: Bars that contain high levels of added sugar have a higher calorie count and can lead to a sugar crash and cravings.
- Artificial Ingredients: Avoid breakfast bars with artificial sweeteners, colours, and flavours as they are usually processed chemically and have been linked to various health issues such as cancer.
- Hydrogenated Oils: These are trans fats that are harmful to your health, and they also increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues.
With these tips in mind, you can choose a healthy breakfast bar that meets your dietary needs and keeps you feeling full and energized for your morning ahead.
6 Easy and Delicious Healthy Breakfast Bar Recipes
Are you tired of grabbing a sugary breakfast bar on your way out the door? Look no further! These 6 healthy breakfast bar recipes will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.
Cherry Almond Bars
These bars are packed with protein and fiber, making them the perfect breakfast on-the-go. They are also vegan and gluten-free!
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until well combined and sticky. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Bars
Who doesn’t love the combination of peanut butter and chocolate? These bars are the perfect way to indulge in that flavor combo while still staying healthy.
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanuts
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine oats, peanuts, coconut, and chocolate chips in a large bowl. In a small saucepan, heat peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt over low heat until melted and smooth. Pour peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Blueberry Oatmeal Bars
These bars are a great way to sneak in a serving of fruit first thing in the morning. They also freeze well, so you can make a big batch and save them for busy mornings.
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup flaxseed meal
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 egg
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix oats, almond flour, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, maple syrup, and egg until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Fold in blueberries. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Banana Nut Bars
These bars are naturally sweetened with bananas and are packed with healthy fats from the nuts. They are also vegan and gluten-free!
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse oats and nuts until coarsely chopped. In a separate bowl, mix mashed banana, almond butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Add oat and nut mixture to wet ingredients and stir until well combined. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Quinoa Breakfast Bars
These bars use quinoa instead of oats for an extra protein boost. They are also vegan and gluten-free!
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix quinoa, coconut, almond flour, chia seeds, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Apple Cinnamon Bars
These bars are a perfect way to savor the flavors of fall all year long. They are also vegan and gluten-free!
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix oats, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, almond butter, maple syrup, and grated apple until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Pour mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.
How to Store and Meal Prep Breakfast Bars
Breakfast bars are a convenient and tasty option for busy mornings or as a quick snack during the day. By making large batches ahead of time and storing them properly, you can have breakfast bars ready to go whenever you need them. Here are some tips for storing and meal prepping your breakfast bars.
Storing Breakfast Bars
Proper storage of breakfast bars is crucial to keep them fresh and tasty. The key is to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from getting stale or absorbing any odors from the fridge or freezer. Here are two options for storing breakfast bars:
- Fridge: If you plan to eat your breakfast bars within a week, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to seven days.
- Freezer: If you’re making a large batch of breakfast bars and want to store them for a longer period, freeze them in an airtight container or plastic bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Be sure to label the container or plastic bag with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Meal Prepping Breakfast Bars
In addition to storing breakfast bars, meal prepping them is a great way to save time in the morning and ensure that you have a healthy breakfast option ready to go. Here’s how to meal prep breakfast bars:
- Bake a large batch: Use a recipe that makes a large batch of breakfast bars so you have plenty to store and enjoy throughout the week.
- Cool: Allow the breakfast bars to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation from forming in the container and making them soggy.
- Portion: Cut the breakfast bars into individual portions. This will make them easier to grab and go when you need them.
- Store: Store the individual portions in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, depending on how soon you plan to eat them.
By following these storage and meal prep tips, you can enjoy delicious and healthy breakfast bars without any hassle. Try out different recipes and experiment with your favorite flavors to find the perfect combination for your taste buds!
Healthy Breakfast Bar Swaps for Variety
Are you getting tired of your usual breakfast bar routine? Switch things up with these healthy and delicious alternatives that will keep you feeling full and satisfied all morning long.
Oatmeal Cups
Oatmeal cups are a great option for a quick and easy breakfast on-the-go. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences. You can add in different fruits, nuts, or seeds to mix up the flavor. Best of all, you can make a big batch at once and store them in the fridge for a delicious breakfast all week long.
Egg Muffins
If you’re looking to incorporate more protein into your diet, egg muffins are the perfect breakfast option. Made with eggs, vegetables, and cheese, these muffins are loaded with nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized all morning long. Plus, like oatmeal cups, you can make them in advance, so they’re ready to go when you are.
Yogurt Parfaits
For a breakfast that feels more like a treat, try making a yogurt parfait. Layer your favorite yogurt with fresh fruit, granola, and nuts for a delicious and satisfying breakfast that will keep you feeling full until lunchtime. Plus, with so many flavor combinations to choose from, you’ll never get bored.
Smoothie Bowls
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both refreshing and filling, try making a smoothie bowl. Blend together frozen fruits, almond milk, and your favorite protein powder for a smoothie that’s thick enough to eat with a spoon. Top with granola, nuts, or fresh fruit for added texture and flavor.
Banana Bread Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of oat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- In a separate bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas and mix in 2 eggs, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cut the bars into squares and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Banana bread bars are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional breakfast bars. Made with oat flour and sweetened with honey and bananas, they’re packed with fiber and nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized. Plus, you can customize the recipe to include your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy snack option, breakfast bars might just be the answer. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about making healthy breakfast bars.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipes?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ingredients as long as they have similar textures and flavors. For example, if you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute nuts with dry fruits such as raisins or cranberries. Alternatively, you can substitute flour with almond flour or any other gluten-free flour options.
Can I add protein powder to the recipes?
Yes, adding protein powder to breakfast bars can be a great way to increase the protein content. However, you need to make sure that you’re using high-quality protein powder that doesn’t have any added sugars or artificial sweeteners that can add unnecessary calories. Also, you’ll need to adjust the amount of liquid ingredients accordingly to ensure that the bars aren’t too dry or crumbly.
Are breakfast bars a good post-workout snack?
Yes, breakfast bars can be a good post-workout snack as they are easy to digest and provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. However, you need to make sure that the bars you’re consuming aren’t loaded with added sugars as they can undo all the benefits of your workout. Look for bars that have no more than 8-10 grams of added sugars per serving.
How long do breakfast bars last in the fridge/freezer?
Breakfast bars can last up to 1 week in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container. However, make sure that there is no moisture or condensation on the bars before you wrap them in plastic wrap or foil.
Can I make breakfast bars nut-free for those with allergies?
Yes, you can make nut-free breakfast bars by using sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or any other seeds that have a similar texture as nuts. Alternatively, you can also use coconut flakes, as they have a nutty flavor and crunch that works well in bars. Just make sure to check the ingredients of any pre-packaged ingredients you use, as they may have been processed in a facility that also processes nuts.
Enjoy Your Hearty Breakfast with These Delicious Homemade Breakfast Bars
So there you have it! A few amazing recipes for healthy breakfast bars that will surely power up your day. With these delectable bars, you’ll never have to skip breakfast again, no matter how busy your mornings get. Eating a healthy breakfast can help you kick start your day with more energy and focus, leading to a happier and more productive you. I hope you enjoyed reading this article and will try making these breakfast bars at home. Don’t forget to visit us again for more delicious and healthy food ideas. Thanks for reading!