Almond Butter Chia Squares - The Perfect Healthy Treat

Looking for a quick, nutritious snack or breakfast that actually tastes like a treat? Enter almond butter chia squares. Packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats, these no-bake bars make the perfect grab-and-go option for busy days. Read on to discover just how easy it is to make this gluten-free, vegan power snack at home.

What are Almond Butter Chia Squares?

Almond butter chia squares are an easy, no-bake treat made from just a handful of simple whole food ingredients. The base consists of almond butter, oats, chia seeds and honey or maple syrup to bind it all together. After chilling, you get a crispy-chewy, nutty and sweet square that’s secretly packed with nutrition.

Make them ahead in big batches and enjoy for up to a week. They’re the perfect portable breakfast, snack or dessert that keep you fueled all day long.

No-Bake, Gluten-Free & Vegan

One of the best things about almond butter chia squares is how easy they are to make at home. There’s no baking required, so no need to even turn on your oven.

They’re also naturally gluten-free since the base is made with rolled oats instead of flour. And chia seeds act as a binder instead of eggs, keeping the squares vegan-friendly.

Nourishing Ingredients

Though they taste like a treat, almond butter chia squares deliver a big punch of nutrition. Some of the main healthy ingredients include:

• Almond butter - Protein, healthy fats, vitamin E
• Oats - Fiber, antioxidants
• Chia seeds - Protein, omega-3s, calcium
• Dates - Fiber, potassium, B vitamins

You can easily add mix-ins like protein powder, cacao nibs, dried fruit and more to customize the nutrition profile and flavor.

How to Make Almond Butter Chia Squares

Ready to get your hands on this nourishing snack? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making almond butter chia squares at home:

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond butter
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1⁄4 cup chia seeds
• 1⁄4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Line an 8x8” baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides to easily remove the squares later.

2. In a medium bowl, stir together the almond butter, oats, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla and salt until well combined.

3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to pack it evenly in the pan.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until set.

5. Remove from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Mix-In Ideas

Customize your almond butter chia squares by mixing in any of the following:

• Dried fruit - raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots
• Nuts - walnuts, pecans, pistachios
• Seeds - pumpkin, sunflower, flax
• Cocoa powder or cacao nibs
• Protein powder
• Shredded coconut

Health Benefits of Almond Butter Chia Squares

Looking for a guilt-free snack you can feel good about eating? Almond butter chia squares deliver major healthy perks including:

1. Packed with Protein

With 6g protein per square, these satisfy hunger and keep you full for hours. The protein comes from the almond butter and chia seeds.

2. Loaded with Fiber

Each square provides 5g of fiber, which is about 20% of your daily needs. This aids digestion and gut health.

3. Provides Lasting Energy

The combo of protein, fiber and healthy fats provides steady, long-lasting energy. No sugar crash!

4. Naturally Gluten-Free

The oat and chia base makes these bars safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

5. Contains Heart-Healthy Fats

Monounsaturated fats from the almonds help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.

Customizing Your Almond Butter Chia Squares

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Get creative with different add-ins and flavors!

Mix-In Ideas:

• Dried cranberries + white chocolate chips
• Toasted pecans + peanut butter chips
• Cocoa powder + chocolate chunks
• Diced apricots + almond slices
• Pumpkin seeds + cinnamon

Flavored Almond Butters:

• Maple almond butter
• Vanilla almond butter
• Chocolate almond butter
• Honey roasted almond butter
• Cinnamon raisin almond butter

Topping Ideas:

• Sliced almonds
• Coconut flakes
• Sesame seeds
• Dried fruit
• Chopped dark chocolate

Creative Ways to Enjoy Almond Butter Chia Squares

Crunch into these nourishing squares for:

On-the-Go Breakfast

Grab a couple squares to eat in the car or on your commute for lasting energy.

Mid-Morning Snack

Fight off the mid-morning munchies and energy slump with a protein-packed square.

Post-Workout Recovery

Refuel tired muscles with a square that has the ideal mix of protein, carbs and healthy fats.

Guilt-Free Dessert

Indulge your sweet tooth without the sugar overload - a square with berries hits the spot.

Kid-Friendly Lunchbox Treat

Stash a square or two in your kid’s lunch for a portion-controlled sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do almond butter chia squares keep?

Squares will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can you use peanut butter instead?

Absolutely! Swap out almond butter for your favorite nut or seed butter like peanut or sunflower seed.

What sweeteners work besides honey?

Maple syrup, agave, or any liquid sweetener can sub for the honey in a 1:1 ratio.

How do you cut the squares cleanly?

Wipe your knife clean between cuts and cut slowly in even motions. Refrigerating longer helps them firm up for cleaner cuts.

Can you use quick oats instead of rolled?

Yes, quick oats work too! You may need to reduce the liquid slightly since they absorb more.

Make Your Own Nourishing Almond Butter Chia Squares

Crunchy, chewy and secretly healthy, these almond butter chia squares make the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast or snack. They come together in minutes with no baking required. Customize with your favorite mix-ins to suit any taste or dietary needs. With a batch in your fridge or freezer, you’ll always be prepared with a nutritious, satisfying treat.