Healthy No Bake Flax Seed Bars Recipe: Gluten-Free & Vegan
Hi friends, As my health journey continues, one of the more difficult tasks I’ve encountered is finding a healthy snack that isn’t out of the package. Enter into the grocery cart, flax seeds. Not only are flax seeds full of a mild nutty flavor, but they are also a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as phytochemicals called lignans. My healthy no-bake flax seed bars recipe: gluten-free & vegan homemade energy bars cover all the bases for health and ease.
How can I eat flax seeds as a snack?
Flax seeds are a fantastic little superfood that packs a big nutritional punch and health benefits, all in a tiny package. These little seeds are loaded with omega-3. They’re also a fabulous source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble, which can help with digestion and maintaining a healthy gut. Plus, flax seeds are rich in lignans, which may have anti-cancer properties. And let’s not forget, they’re a great source of high-quality protein and minerals like magnesium, making them a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet.
They are a healthy addition to your diet but how do you add them to a snack?
- Mix whole or ground flax seeds into homemade granola bars or energy balls for a nutritious, crunchy snack.
- Stir ground flax seeds into yogurt or sprinkle them over a smoothie bowl for added fiber and omega-3s.
- Toast flax seeds lightly and mix them with nuts, dried fruits or pumpkin seeds for a healthy, homemade trail mix.
Whether you sprinkle them on your breakfast cereal, blend them into smoothies, or bake them into your bread, they’re a simple way to boost your nutritional intake!
Main Ingredients for No Bake-Flaxseed Bars
Follow along to see how easy this quick snack is to make. Here is what you will need for this great recipe:
- 1 1/4 cups Unsweetened Coconut
- 1/3 cup Ground Flaxseed Meal
- 1 cup Brazil Nuts (raw almonds may be substituted)
- 4 cups Whole Pitted Dates
- 1/8 tsp Pink Himalayan Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Almond Extract
Equipment Needed
Medium bowl, Food processor, baking sheet (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
- Add the coconut, flax seeds, brazil nuts, and salt in a food processor and process until finely chopped.
- Next, add the dates, almond, and vanilla extract until finely chopped in a large bowl. The mixture should begin to blend. (If you cannot form a small ball in your hands, add more dates to form the ball)
- Press into an 8 x 12-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or roll into small 1 -2 inch balls. Best stored in an airtight container in the freezer. It only takes a minute or two to thaw before eating.
Flavor Variations Flavor additions
- Suggestions for customizing flavors (a great addition would be: chocolate chips, dried fruits, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and cranberries)
- Peanut or Almond Butter, Maple Syrup, Raw Honey
Healthy binders to keep the bars together (e.g., nut butter, coconut oil)
Healthy No Bake Flax Seed Bars Recipe
Healthy No Bake Flax Seed Bars Recipe: Gluten-Free & Vegan
Equipment
- Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup Unsweetened Coconut
- 1/3 cup Flax Seed Meal
- 1 cup Brazil Nuts
- 4 cups Whole Pitted Dates
- 1/8 tsp Pink Himalyan Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Almond Extract
Instructions
- Add the coconut, flax seed, brazil nuts and salt in a food processor and process until finely chopped.
- Next, add the dates, almond and vanilla extract until finely chopped. The mixture should begin to blend together. (If you cannot form a small ball in your hands, add more dates to form the ball)
- Press into a baking sheet or roll into small 1 -2 inch balls. Best stored in freezer. It only takes a minute or two to thaw prior to eating.
Notes
One option is to lay a sheet of parchment paper on a baking tray and then place the flax mixture on top.
Add a second sheet of parchment paper over the top. Using a roller, roll the bars out in the baking sheet.
I found it quicker and easier to roll the balls by hand, and then place them on the baking sheet.
Lastly, place the baking sheet into the freezer for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Store in a ziplock bag in the freezer or an airtight container.
Shop & Source
Additional ideas for how to use flax seeds
- Flaxseed Meal Pancakes: Start your morning with a nutritious twist by incorporating ground flaxseed into your pancake batter. Not only do they add a nutty flavor, but they also boost the fiber content, making your breakfast both delicious and heart-healthy.
- Homemade Flax Crackers: Mix ground flax seeds with water, seasonings, and herbs of your choice to create crispy, homemade crackers. These are perfect for a healthy snack option, packed with omega-3s and can be easily customized to match your taste preferences.
- Flaxseed Smoothie Booster: Elevate your smoothies by adding a tablespoon of ground flax seeds. It’s an effortless way to integrate essential fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants into your diet, enhancing the nutritional value of your smoothie without compromising taste.
- Vegan Flax Egg for Baking: Combine ground flax seeds with water to create a “flax egg,” a vegan substitute for eggs in baking recipes. This mixture can be used in cakes, muffins, and bread, adding moisture and acting as a binding agent.
- Flaxseed-Encrusted Chicken or Fish: For a crunchy, nutritious coating, dip chicken breasts or fish fillets in beaten eggs, then dredge them in a mixture of ground flax seeds, breadcrumbs, and spices before baking. This not only adds a wonderful texture but also enriches your meal with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
- Flaxseed and Oatmeal Breakfast Bars: Combine oats, ground flax seeds, nuts, dried fruits, and honey to make wholesome breakfast bars. These bars are a great make-ahead option, offering a convenient and healthy breakfast or snack that’s loaded with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
FAQs
1: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup in the flax seed bars recipe?
Yes, you can substitute honey for maple syrup in a 1:1 ratio if you’re not strictly vegan. Honey offers a similar texture and sweetness, making it a suitable alternative for binding the ingredients together.
2: How long do the no-bake flax seed bars last when stored properly?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the no-bake flax seed bars can last up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months, just be sure to thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
3: Can I add protein powder to the flax seed bars recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder to increase the protein content of the bars. For every scoop of protein powder added, you may need to slightly adjust the amount of binding agents (like nut butter or coconut oil) to ensure the mixture sticks together properly without becoming too dry.
Other recipes you may enjoy:
These healthy homemade strawberry protein bars
Delicious Almond butter protein ball recipe
The first time I sampled these energy bites, I was pleasantly surprised by their ability to satisfy my sweet cravings with a healthier alternative. Whether as a quick breakfast option or as a satisfying after-school snack, they perfectly hit the spot.
