Homemade Clif Bar Organic Blueberry Crisp Bar 12x2 Recipe: A Healthier, Crunchier Alternative

Category: Energy Bar

Introduction

The Clif Bar, a staple in the world of energy bars, has been fueling adventurers and busy lifestyles since - Founded by Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford, Clif Bar became synonymous with wholesome, organic ingredients and sustained energy. The Organic Blueberry Crisp Bar, with its sweet and tangy flavor profile, has won the hearts of many. However, store-bought bars often come with added sugars, preservatives, and a hefty price tag. Making your own version at home allows you to control the ingredients, reduce sugar content, and customize the recipe to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s cost-effective and fun!

I remember my first hiking trip where I devoured a Clif Bar to keep my energy up. It was delicious, but I couldn’t help thinking about how I could recreate it at home with cleaner ingredients. After months of trial and error, I nailed down a recipe that not only tastes identical but also offers better nutritional value. This homemade version uses organic, non-GMO ingredients and less added sugar, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor or texture.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own Clif Bar at home offers several advantages:

• Customization: Adjust the amount of sugar, choose your favorite nuts, or add a hint of spice to make it uniquely yours.
• Cost-Effective: Buying ingredients in bulk is often cheaper than purchasing individual bars.
• Healthier Ingredients: Use organic, non-GMO, and less processed ingredients to create a bar that aligns with your dietary preferences.
• Freshness: Homemade bars are made fresh, ensuring optimal flavor and texture.

Personal Anecdote

During a recent family camping trip, I packed a batch of these homemade Clif Bars for our hike. My kids loved them, and my husband couldn’t believe they weren’t store-bought. It was a proud moment knowing I’d created something healthier that still satisfied everyone’s cravings. Plus, the kids had the energy to keep up with our adventures all day long!

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:0 minutes (no-bake)
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:12 bars

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) rolled oats (organic, non-GMO)
• 1 cup (120g) chopped almonds (or other nuts of your choice)
• 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup (60g) pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) puffed rice cereal (organic, non-GMO)
• 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tbsp (15g) coconut oil
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract

Blueberry Filling:

• 1/2 cup (60g) dried organic blueberries
• 2 tbsp (30g) honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp (15g) chia seeds

Instructions

• Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, unsweetened shredded coconut, puffed rice cereal, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to combine.

• Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, honey, applesauce, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat for a few minutes until it reaches a pourable consistency.

• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed but shouldn’t be too sticky. If it’s too dry, add a little more honey or applesauce. If it’s too wet, add a bit more oats.

• Prepare the Blueberry Filling:

• In a small bowl, mix the dried blueberries, honey, and chia seeds. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb some of the moisture and create a jam-like consistency.

• Assemble the Bars:

• Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.

  • Spread the blueberry filling evenly over the pressed oat mixture.
  • Top with the remaining oat mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres to the blueberry layer.

• Set and Cut:

• Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to set.

  • Cut into 12 equal bars. For a cleaner cut, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace honey with maple syrup and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free oats and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a spicy kick.
• Tropical Version: Replace the blueberry filling with dried pineapple and mango, and add a hint of coconut flakes.

Special Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 8x8 inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan (optional)
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips

• Toasting Oats: Lightly toast the oats in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance the flavor and aroma.
• Consistency Check: If the mixture feels too crumbly, add a bit more honey or applesauce. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more oats.
• Pressing Technique: Use a spatula or your hands (lightly oiled) to press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried ones?

  • Fresh blueberries have too much moisture and will make the bars soggy. Dried blueberries are the best option for this recipe.

• What can I do if the bars turn out too crumbly?

  • If the bars are too crumbly, they may need a bit more honey or applesauce. Next time, add an extra tablespoon or two of your chosen binder.

• Can I make these bars vegan?

  • Yes! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

• How long do these bars last?

  • Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars will last up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

• Can I scale this recipe for larger batches?

  • Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by your desired batch size. Keep in mind that larger batches may require a bit more time to set.

Serving Suggestions

• On-the-Go Snack: Perfect for hiking, biking, or any outdoor adventure.
• Post-Workout Fuel: A great way to replenish energy after a workout.
• Breakfast on the Run: Pair with a piece of fruit for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
• Lunchbox Addition: Include one in your or your kids’ lunchbox for a healthy treat.

Conclusion

Making your own Clif Bar at home is not only cost-effective and healthier, but it’s also a fun and rewarding process. This recipe captures the essence of the store-bought version while offering a cleaner, more customizable alternative. With its perfect balance of crunch, chew, and flavor, these homemade bars are sure to become a household favorite. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nutritious for yourself and your loved ones. Happy baking!