Trail Mix Energy Squares with Pepitas – thank you for stopping by, my friend! I’m so excited to share this uplifting and powerful snack idea that fuels your busy days (and tastebuds!). Want more wholesome recipes? Subscribe for regular updates in your inbox!
🍓 Overview of Recipe Content
These Trail Mix Energy Squares with Pepitas are your new go-to snack for when you need a quick boost—perfect for breakfast-on-the-go, afternoon pick-me-ups, or hiking treats. They offer a delightful mix of chewy oats, crunchy pepitas, fruity sweetness, and a hint of chocolate—all tied together with nut butter and honey. Think of them as the perfect fusion of energy bar meets trail mix!
What you’ll love:
- Chewy texture with satisfying pepita crunch
- Naturally sweet, no refined sugar
- Quick, no-bake preparation
- Nutrient-rich and easy to customize
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- ¼ cup chopped dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, or raisins)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Tools needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan (to slightly warm nut butter/honey)
- 8×8″ pan or similar, lined with parchment
Substitutions/Additions:
- Add chia seeds, flaxseed, or protein powder
- Use sunflower seed butter for nut-free version
- Swap honey for agave or brown rice syrup
How to Make Trail Mix Energy Squares with Pepitas
- Warm the binder
In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt peanut/almond butter with honey until smooth and pourable—stirring often so it doesn’t scorch. Remove from heat.
(I promise this swirling stage smells heavenly!) - Mix the dry ingredients
In a big bowl, stir together oats, pepitas, dried fruit, chocolate chips, cinnamon (if using), and salt. - Combine wet and dry
Pour the warm nut butter-honey mixture into the dry bowl. Mix until everything is coated evenly. - Press into pan
Transfer mixture to the parchment-lined pan. Press down firmly—this helps the squares hold together once chilled. - Chill to set
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (or pop in the freezer for faster setting—around 30 minutes). - Slice and serve
Lift out the block, slice into 12 bars or squares. Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
(Pro tip: press hard with the back of a spoon or your knuckles—this makes them chewy and cohesive!)
What to Serve with Trail Mix Energy Squares
These squares really shine on their own as a grab-and-go snack, but here are some pairing ideas:
- A cup of black coffee or green tea
- Greek yogurt parfait topped with fresh berries
- Fresh fruits like apple slices or banana halves
- As an after-hike bite alongside nuts and cheese
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Press firmly—to prevent crumbly squares
- Customize mix-ins—swap pepitas for chopped nuts or seeds
- Work quickly—once the hot mixture hits the oats, it sets fast
- Make-ahead friendly—store in fridge/freezer for quick access
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Sealed container—up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Individually wrapped—up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or enjoy chilled!
General Information
No-bake energy bars like these trace back to the evolution of trail foods—simple combinations made hearty by oats and binders—from backpackers to health enthusiasts. Pepitas are rich in magnesium and zinc, dried fruits bring natural sweetness, and oats provide sustainable energy—making these squares a wholesome snack option anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled?
Yes, but rolled oats give better texture. Quick oats may make them softer and easier to crumble.
Can I skip the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Swap for cacao nibs or add more dried fruit/nuts to keep texture diverse.
Are they vegan?
Use maple syrup and almond butter, ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free.
How many squares does it yield?
Approximately 12 squares (about 2″ each side).
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double everything and use a 9×9″ or 9×13″ pan—chill longer.
Can I bake them?
You could bake slightly, but they’re best no-bake for chewy texture.
Interactive Elements
I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Drop a comment below or leave a review. Snap a photo, pin it on Pinterest at pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/ and tag me. Your feedback means the world! 🌟
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 10 g (2 g sat) |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
Irresistible Trail Mix Energy Squares with Pepitas
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chewy, no-bake energy squares packed with oats, pepitas, dried fruit & chocolate—perfect for a healthy snack anytime.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup pepitas
1/4 cup chopped dried fruit
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs
1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt nut butter with honey until smooth.
2. In a bowl, mix oats, pepitas, dried fruit, chocolate chips, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Pour warm mixture into dry ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Press the mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8 pan.
5. Cover and chill for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
6. Lift out and slice into 12 squares. Store in the fridge.
Notes
Press firmly to ensure squares hold together.
Customize mix-ins with seeds, nuts, or protein powder.
Store in fridge (7 days) or freeze (2 months).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No‑Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 0
