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Chia and Amaranth No-Bake Energy Bars
Original recipe: 12 servings · Prep: 15 min · Cook: 0 min · Total: 15 min
By TinyTummyTreats Editorial TeamPublished Apr 28, 2026 | Updated May 11, 2026
International
15 mins
easy-to-makegluten-freesoft-texturebalanced-nutritionquick-prepmake-aheadfinger-food-friendlybudget-friendlysuitable-for-12-monthslunchbox-friendlyno_bake
Chia and Amaranth No-Bake Energy Bars with measured ingredients, 15-minute timing, 12-serving yield, and step-by-step instructions for toddler meals, snacks, and family cooking guidance.
Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Total
15 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
International
Ingredients
Servings
12
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup puffed amaranth
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if required)
- 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
-
Line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, puffed amaranth, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and shredded coconut (if using). Mix gently to distribute evenly.
-
In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, warm the sunflower seed butter and pure maple syrup together over low heat until smoothly combined but not hot (about 20-30 seconds in microwave).
-
Add the mashed banana and vanilla extract to the warm mixture and stir until blended.
-
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and fold with a spatula until fully incorporated and sticky. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
-
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly and evenly into the pan using a spatula or clean hands to compress the bars tightly.
-
Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set and firm up.
-
Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the slab out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
-
Cut into 12 toddler-sized bars or squares for easy finger food portions.
-
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze individually wrapped for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Chia and Amaranth No-Bake Energy Bars ahead?
- Yes. Prepare the recipe ahead, cool it completely, and store portions airtight so they are ready for quick toddler snacks or meals.
- How do I keep the texture toddler-friendly?
- Keep pieces or spoonfuls small, avoid overcooking, and serve with a soft side if the texture feels dry or sticky for your child's chewing stage.
- Can ingredients be swapped for allergies?
- Yes. Use safe substitutes for your child's needs and check labels for common cross-contact risks before serving.
- What should I serve with it?
- Pair it with a protein, soft fruit, or cooked vegetable to make the snack or meal more balanced for little appetites.
Ingredient Replacements
- tablespoons chia seeds: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup puffed amaranth: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup rolled oats (gluten-free if required): Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup sunflower seed butter: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup pure maple syrup: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
Storage
Cool Chia and Amaranth No-Bake Energy Bars completely, then store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze extras when practical, thaw before serving, and reheat gently only when a warmer, softer bite is helpful.
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