No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars

If you’re on the hunt for a healthy, satisfying snack that will keep you fueled throughout the day, then look no further than these No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars. Imagine a chewy, nutty bar infused with the sweetness of dates and dried apples, all bound together with creamy almond butter. They are perfect for meal prep, a quick breakfast, or a post-workout treat. Plus, they come together in just a few minutes without ever needing to turn on the oven. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars are not only delicious but incredibly easy to whip up. They are made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of almonds and almond butter provides healthy fats and protein, while the dates and dried apples offer natural sweetness and fiber. They are gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs. With their delightful texture and flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for these bars time and time again.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup almonds
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon plus additional for topping
• Flaky sea salt for topping
• 1 1/3 cups dates, loosely packed
• 1 cup dried apples, firmly packed
• 1 1/2 tablespoons water
• 5 tablespoons creamy almond butter, melted, divided

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Food processor – for blending the ingredients into a sticky, cohesive mixture.
• 9×9 inch baking dish – to shape the bars and ensure they hold together.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of the bars from the dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure out your ingredients.
• Rubber spatula – for mixing and pressing the mixture into the baking dish.

No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lining your 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift out the bars later.

Step 2: Process the Almonds

In your food processor, add the 1 cup of almonds and pulse until they are finely chopped but not turned into almond flour. You want some texture here!

Step 3: Add Dates and Dried Apples

Next, add the 1 1/3 cups of loosely packed dates and 1 cup of firmly packed dried apples to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and sticky.

Step 4: Incorporate Water and Almond Butter

Add the 1 1/2 tablespoons of water and 3 tablespoons of melted almond butter (reserve 2 tablespoons for topping) to the processor. Blend until everything is evenly mixed and holds together when pressed between your fingers. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon

Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and pulse a few more times to incorporate the spice throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Press into the Dish

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a rubber spatula, press it down firmly and evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of melted almond butter over the top of the bars. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon and flaky sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.

Step 8: Refrigerate

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm enough to cut.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired and enjoy!

Ingredient Flex Options

• Nut Alternatives: Swap almonds for pecans or walnuts for a different flavor and texture.
• Dried Fruits: Use other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries if you prefer a different taste.
• Nut Butter: Feel free to use other nut butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter for variety.
• Sweetener: If you prefer a sweeter bar, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or honey (if not following Whole30).

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by the desire for a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste. The combination of almonds and almond butter provides a satisfying crunch and creaminess, while the dried apples add a chewy sweetness that reminds you of fall. Plus, making these bars no-bake means you can enjoy them any time of year without heating up your kitchen. They are a wonderful treat to share with friends or to keep all to yourself for those busy days!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars are perfect for meal prep! Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just grab one and let it thaw for a few minutes, or enjoy it straight from the freezer for a cool snack!

Your Top Questions

Can I use fresh apples instead of dried apples?

Fresh apples will add too much moisture to the bars and will not yield the same chewy texture. It’s best to stick with dried apples for this recipe.

How do I store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes! You can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for an extra protein boost. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients.

What can I use instead of almond butter?

You can substitute almond butter with other nut butters like cashew butter or sunflower seed butter, depending on your dietary preferences and needs.

Final Bite

These No-Bake Whole30 Apple-Almond Butter Bars are a fantastic way to indulge in something sweet while still keeping your health goals on track. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go, a midday snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these bars are sure to hit the spot. Give them a try and see how they become a staple in your healthy snacking routine!