Most mornings, before I head out the door to run or go to the gym, I have my cup or two of coffee but don’t eat anything until after I get back. Most people don’t require a pre-run meal if their run is less than 90 minutes. However, sometimes your body desires a little something — just a few bites to keep hunger at bay and give your blood sugar levels a little boost. When this is the case, it’s best to have that pre-run snack 30-90 minutes before your run — something with easily-digestible carbs (for energy), a little protein (to stave off hunger) and potassium (to prevent muscle cramps) is best.
I had a little extra time today, as my office was closed, so I decided to create a healthy “cookie” that I could snack on with my morning cup of coffee this week. For my first attempt, I have to say, it wasn’t half-bad!
I started with 3 packets of this Open Nature Maple Brown Sugar with Pecans oatmeal. I discovered this cereal (in dry form) a couple weeks ago, and it was so delicious, I bought this hot version as well.
Next, I grabbed peanut butter (protein), sliced blanched almonds (potassium), chia seeds (extra energy), vanilla extract and cinnamon (for flavor).
After mixing it all together, the mixture looked a tad dry, so I added a tablespoon of egg whites and re-mixed.
Next, I poured and pressed the mixture down (to about 1/4-inch thickness) onto a baking dish lined with foil (for easy cleanup) and baked at 325 degrees for 20 minutes.
When they came out, they smelled so delicious! But I resisted the urge to eat them right away and let them cool, then cut them into 12 squares.
I’m pretty happy with how they turned out! They’re soft, not too crumbly, sweet without being overly sweet, and very satisfying. To me, they actually do taste more like cookies than energy bars, but I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3 packets oatmeal (I used Open Nature Maple Brown Sugar with Pecans, but you really could use any brand/flavor you like)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sliced blanched almonds
- 1 1/2 tsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp egg whites
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit
- Stir all ingredients in a large mixing bowl
- Line baking sheet/dish with tin foil and spray lightly with cooking spray (I used coconut oil)
- Pour mixture on baking sheet/dish, and press to about 1/4-inch thickness
- Bake for 20-25 minutes
- Let cool, and cut into 12 squares
Nutrition facts
- Calories (per bar): 75
- Carbs: 11.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Sugar: 5.5 g
Enjoy!
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