Are you searching for a nutritious snack that will keep you energized throughout the day? Look no further than these delightful Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars! Perfect for a quick breakfast on the go, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout treat, these bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your cravings while providing the fuel you need to power through your day.

The beauty of these energy bars lies in their simplicity. With the help of your trusty slow cooker, you can prepare a batch that will last you all week, making them the ultimate convenience food. Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, thanks to the combination of ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts. Let’s dive in and discover why these Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars are sure to become a staple in your home.

Why This Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars Stands Out

These energy bars shine for several reasons:

Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, these bars are a wholesome choice.
Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Great for Meal Prep: A batch can easily be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a healthy snack ready whenever you need it.

What We’re Using

This recipe features ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious. Here’s what you will need:

3 tablespoons natural peanut butter: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
3 tablespoons honey: A natural sweetener that binds the bars together.
1 1/4 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk: Provides moisture and a subtle vanilla flavor.
3/4 cup ripe banana, mashed: Adds natural sweetness and acts as a binding agent.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Offers warmth and depth of flavor.
2 large eggs: Helps hold everything together and adds protein.
1/2 cup raisins: Provides chewy sweetness and extra fiber.
1/3 cup banana chips, roughly chopped: Adds crunch and an additional banana flavor.
1/3 cup steel-cut oats: The star of the show, providing texture and heartiness.
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped: For added crunch and protein.
2 tablespoons cacao nibs: A delightful chocolatey element without added sugar.

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, gather the following gear:

Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe; any size will do, but a larger one may yield a thicker bar.
Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
Spatula: To help mix and pour your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the best results.
Greased parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars once cooked.

Cook Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious energy bars:

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by greasing the bottom and sides of your slow cooker with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, and mashed ripe banana. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Crack the two large eggs into the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

To the wet mixture, add the cinnamon, raisins, banana chips, steel-cut oats, chopped roasted peanuts, and cacao nibs. Stir until everything is evenly coated and mixed.

Step 5: Pour and Spread

Pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker and use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 6: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about 4 hours. The mixture should be set and firm to the touch when done.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Carefully lift the bars out using the parchment paper, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares or rectangles.

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it’s made with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Check your pantry for:

Natural peanut butter
Honey
Almond milk
Bananas
Cinnamon
Eggs
Raisins
Banana chips
Steel-cut oats
Chopped roasted peanuts
Cacao nibs

If you’re missing any ingredients, feel free to substitute or get creative with what you have!

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned cooks can have hurdles. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not greasing or lining the slow cooker properly: This can lead to a sticky mess when trying to remove the bars.
Overcooking: Keep an eye on your slow cooker; every model is different. You want the bars to be firm but not dry.
Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool properly ensures they set and hold together when cut.
Using unripe bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and binding capability.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars are perfect for meal prepping! Here’s how to go about it:

Store the cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use quick oats instead of steel-cut oats?

While steel-cut oats provide a hearty texture, you can substitute quick oats. Just keep in mind the texture will be different, and the cooking time will be reduced.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Ensure that all your ingredients, especially oats and any added mix-ins, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can safely enjoy your energy bars without any gluten concerns.

Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the peanut butter for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice for a different flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these energy bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also drizzle a little extra peanut butter or honey on top for added flavor. Pair them with a cup of coffee or your favorite smoothie for a well-rounded snack!

Save & Share

If you love these Slow-Cooker Steel-Cut Oats Energy Bars, don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family! They’ll appreciate the deliciousness and health benefits just as much as you do. Post your creations on social media and tag your favorite food blogger for a chance to be featured!

These energy bars are more than just a simple snack; they are a testament to how enjoyable healthy eating can be. So grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!