Choc-cherry muesli bars

These ultra-chewy choc-cherry muesli bars are cheaper, tastier than most store-brought snacks and are full of good-for-you ingredients.

Packed with high-fibre wholegrain oats, nuts, seeds and a pop of dried cherries, they are a powerful source of essential B group vitamins, particularly vitamins B1, B2 and B3. They make a nourishing snack perfect to prep ahead and pop in work lunchboxes or keep for a post-workout pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Serves 10
Prep time 15 minutes
Chill time 120 minutes
Vegetarian & Vegan Suitable, Dairy free

• ½ cup pure almond butter
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup almonds, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup desiccated coconut
• ¼ cup pepitas
• ½ cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
• 50g 70% cocoa dark chocolate, melted

How to make

1. Heat the maple syrup and almond butter in a small saucepan over a medium heat. Stir until smooth. Reduce the heat to low and stir for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture resembles a thick caramel-like substance.

2. Place the rolled oats, almonds, coconut, pepitas and dried cherries in a large mixing bowl. Mix to combine. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the dried ingredients and mix well, until all ingredients are well coated.

3. Line a square 20cm baking pan with baking paper. Using your hands, firmly press the muesli bar mixture into the tin.

4. Place the pan in the fridge for two hours to firm. Drizzle over the melted dark chocolate and cut into 10 small bars, return to the fridge to set.

Notes

• Using maple syrup ensures the recipe remains vegan-suitable, however feel free to replace the maple syrup with honey if you would prefer.

Nutritional information

Rachel Scoular is an avid foodie, APD Dietitian and founder of @healthyhappyhabits