Homemade Hain Celestial Earth Best Snack Bars Kosher Strawberry Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Snack Bars

Introduction

For decades, Hain Celestial’s Earth Best Snack Bars have been a beloved choice for health-conscious consumers, particularly parents seeking wholesome, organic options for their families. The Strawberry flavor, with its sweet and tangy profile, has become a staple in many households. These bars are known for their chewy texture, fruity flavor, and commitment to using clean, kosher-certified ingredients. However, store-bought options can be pricey and may contain more sugar than desired. By making them at home, you can enjoy the same delicious taste with better nutritional value, customization, and cost-effectiveness. Plus, you can avoid any unwanted additives often found in commercial products.

The Earth Best Snack Bars were first introduced in the early 1990s as part of the growing demand for organic and natural foods. They quickly gained popularity for their simple ingredient list and kid-friendly flavors. Today, they remain a favorite, but many fans of the product have sought ways to recreate them at home to better control the ingredients and reduce sugar content. This recipe is designed to mimic the original while offering a healthier alternative.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own snack bars at home allows you to:

• Reduce Sugar Content: Commercial snack bars often contain high amounts of added sugar. By making them at home, you can use natural sweeteners and control the amount.
• Customize Ingredients: Tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences, whether that’s gluten-free, vegan, or using specific types of grains.
• Save Money: Homemade versions are often more cost-effective than store-bought options.
• Ensure Freshness: Freshly made bars have a better texture and flavor compared to mass-produced ones that may sit on shelves for months.

Personal Anecdote

As a parent, I always wanted to provide my kids with healthy snacks that they would actually enjoy. When I discovered the Earth Best Snack Bars, I was thrilled to find something organic and tasty. However, after checking the nutrition label, I was surprised to see how much sugar they contained. Determined to create a better version, I began experimenting with ingredients in my kitchen. After several trials and errors, I landed on this recipe, which my kids (and their friends) absolutely love. It’s not only healthier but also more affordable and customizable. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:25 minutes
• **Yield:12 bars

Ingredients

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) puffed rice cereal
• 1/2 cup (60g) dried strawberry powder (or 1/4 cup strawberry jam)
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) chia seeds
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla powder

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower butter)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp (30ml) strawberry jam or puree
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried strawberries, chopped

Instructions

• Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the sides for easy removal.

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, puffed rice cereal, dried strawberry powder (or jam), unsweetened shredded coconut, chia seeds, and vanilla powder. Stir well to combine.

• Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, strawberry jam or puree, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.

• Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well incorporated. If using optional add-ins like chopped nuts or dried strawberries, fold them into the mixture now.

• Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly using a spatula or your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking). Ensure the surface is even and tightly packed.

• Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 10 minutes to set.

• Cut into Bars: Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the mixture out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 12 equal bars.

• Store: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace half the honey or maple syrup with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan-friendly nut butter and ensure all ingredients are free from animal products.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute oats with gluten-free oats or another gluten-free cereal.
• Tropical Twist: Add dried pineapple or mango for a fruity variation.

Pro Tips

• Press Firmly: The key to a good snack bar is pressing the mixture firmly into the pan. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure it’s tightly packed.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients, especially the nut butter and coconut oil.
• Customize: Experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate version or cinnamon for a spicy twist.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh strawberries instead of dried strawberry powder or jam?

  • Yes! Use 1/4 cup of fresh strawberry puree in place of the dried powder or jam. Keep in mind that fresh strawberries will add more moisture, so you may need to adjust the amount of nut butter or coconut oil to keep the bars from being too sticky.

• What can I do if the bars are too crumbly?

  • If the bars are too crumbly, they may need a bit more binding agent. Try adding an extra tablespoon of nut butter or honey and re-mix the ingredients before pressing them into the pan again.

• How do I make them last longer?

  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. They can be eaten straight from the freezer or thawed at room temperature for a few minutes.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?

  • Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the desired amount. Keep in mind that larger batches may require a longer chilling time to set properly.

• Are these bars suitable for school lunches?

  • Yes! These bars are perfect for school lunches as they are nut-free (if using sunflower butter) and easy to pack. Just be sure to check with the school for any allergen restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• On-the-Go Snack: These bars are perfect for lunchboxes, backpacks, or quick snacks.
• Post-Workout Treat: With their balanced mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, they make a great post-workout snack.
• Breakfast Option: Pair with a piece of fruit or a smoothie for a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Hain Celestial’s Earth Best Snack Bars offers a healthier, more customizable alternative to the store-bought classic. By using natural sweeteners, wholesome ingredients, and optional add-ins, you can create a product that not only tastes great but also aligns with your dietary preferences. Whether you’re a parent looking for a better snack option for your kids or someone seeking a quick, healthy treat, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of making something delicious and nutritious right in your own kitchen!