Why This Recipe Works

The school run can feel like a sprint, and breakfast or snack time often ends up as an afterthought. These no-bake apricot and oat energy bars are your secret weapon for keeping everyone fuelled and happy without the morning chaos. Think of them as your homemade answer to shop-bought cereal bars, only better. They are packed with wholesome oats, chewy dried apricots, crunchy seeds, and just the right touch of natural sweetness.

Parents will love how practical they are. A single batch prepped on Sunday means you can pop one into a lunchbox, hand one over during the after-school slump, or even keep one tucked in your bag for those moments when you need a pick-me-up. No oven required, minimal washing up, and plenty of fibre and steady energy to keep little ones and grown-ups going until tea time.

The best bit? They taste like a treat while quietly nourishing everyone. It is a little act of care you can feel good about, bringing calm and comfort back into busy days.

No Bake Apricot & Oat Energy Bars 

Prep time: 20 minutes + chill time | Cook time: 20 minutes | Serving size: 4  

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup dried apricots, finely chopped  
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseeds
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract  
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips

Directions:

1. in a small saucepan over low heat, stir together the almond butter and honey until smooth and just warmed. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

2 .In a large bowl, combine oats, apricots, flaxseeds, chia seeds, cinnamon, salt and mini chocolate chips.

3. Pour the warm almond butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated. 

4. Press firmly into a parchment-lined 8x8-inch pan, smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

5. Slice into bars or squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.