Energy bars have become a must-have for hikers looking for vitality during their outdoor adventures. These convenient and nutritious snacks provide the energy you need to maintain a healthy pace and fully enjoy every moment. However, industrial energy bars are often high in added sugars and unnatural ingredients. This is why many hikers turn to preparing homemade energy bars, in order to control the ingredients and personalize their snacks according to their tastes and needs.
Why prepare your own energy bars?
There are many reasons why hikers make their own energy bars. First of all, it allows you to control the quality of the ingredients used. By opting for organic and natural products, we avoid the additives and preservatives present in many commercial energy bars. In addition, preparing your own bars allows you to adapt the recipe according to your dietary preferences and specific needs. It is therefore possible to include superfoods such as chia seeds or goji berries, rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients.
The key ingredients for successful homemade energy bars
To prepare tasty and nourishing homemade energy bars, it is essential to choose the right ingredients. Dried fruits and nuts are an ideal base, providing fiber, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. Dates, figs and dried apricots are particularly appreciated for their soft texture and sweet taste. Almonds, cashews and pecans add crunch and rich nutrients. Sunflower, flax or chia seeds are also interesting options to include in the recipe for their nutritional density.
Homemade energy bar recipes
There are a multitude of homemade energy bar recipes that will satisfy all palates. Here are two examples of simple and delicious recipes:
Dried fruit and nut energy bars
Ingredients :
- 200 g pitted dates
- 100 g dried figs
- 100 g of almonds
- 50 g cashew nuts
- 50 g sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons of honey
Preparation :
- Blend the dates and dried figs until you obtain a sticky paste.
- Add the almonds, cashews and sunflower seeds to the blender and blend until crunchy.
- Add the honey and mix until you obtain a homogeneous paste.
- Spread the dough in a rectangular mold and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Cut into bars and store in a cool place until ready to use.
Chocolate and hazelnut energy bars
Ingredients :
- 200 g pitted dates
- 100 g hazelnuts
- 50 g of flax seeds
- 50 g dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
Preparation :
- Blend the dates until you obtain a sticky paste.
- Add the hazelnuts and flax seeds to the blender and blend until you obtain a crunchy texture.
- Add the chocolate chips and peanut butter, then mix until you obtain a smooth paste.
- Spread the dough in a square mold and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Cut into bars and store in a cool place until ready to use.
Personalization and storage of energy bars
Homemade energy bars are fully customizable. You can enrich them by adding seeds, spices or protein powder according to your preferences and needs. It is also possible to vary the pleasures by using different dried fruits, nuts and chocolates. To store them, it is best to wrap them individually in cling film or place them in airtight containers. They generally keep for up to two weeks in the refrigerator, ideal for taking with you on your next hikes!
In conclusion, homemade energy bars are a healthy and tasty alternative to industrial bars for hikers. By preparing your own bars, you control the ingredients, ensure greater nutritional quality and can personalize them according to your preferences. So, start making your own energy bars and make the most of your outdoor adventures!
