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Homemade Energy Bar (with Collagen)

By Ethan Boldt

May 15, 2026

If there’s one thing we prize in the afternoons, it’s energy. In our search for a boost in energy, we often reach for treats that may give us a quick boost but then a sugar crash not that long after. Instead, for sustained energy, make up your own energy bar.

The average commercial energy bar is largely to be avoided, for it can often include as much sugar as a candy bar, contains many ultra-processed ingredients (such as binders, fillers, preservatives and artificial flavors), and may be low in fiber or quality protein.

This homemade energy bar relies on mostly whole food ingredients as well as Multi Collagen Protein for extra protein that binds easily in the recipe and offers skin, hair, joint and gut health support. It also offers great macros for a 190 calorie bar: 18 grams of carbohydrates, 12 grams of fat and 10 grams of protein.

The easy, no-bake recipe below will yield 12 energy bars. They’re great mid-morning or in the afternoon, or before or after a workout. With its chewy texture with some crunch, they’re also fun to eat.

Key ingredients

• Almonds or pecans: Provide healthy fats, fiber and antioxidants that support heart health and sustained energy. They add crunch, richness and help create a satisfying texture.

• Walnuts or cashews: Deliver essential fatty acids and minerals that support brain function and overall wellness. They contribute creaminess or crunch while enhancing flavor and structure.

• Old-fashioned oats: Offer fiber and complex carbohydrates to support digestion and long-lasting energy. They act as the base, providing bulk and helping bind the bars together.

• Multi Collagen Protein (Unflavored): Supplies key amino acids to support skin, joints and healthy hair. It blends seamlessly to boost protein while slightly firming the texture.

• Dried cranberries: Add natural sweetness along with antioxidants that help support immune health. They add chewiness as well.

• Pumpkin seeds: Provide plant-based protein, magnesium and zinc to support energy and immune function. They provide texture contrast and help hold the bars together.

• Ground cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and may help support healthy blood sugar levels. It enhances overall flavor with warmth and depth.

• Almond butter: Offers healthy fats and protein to promote satiety and sustained energy. It acts as a primary binder, holding the ingredients together while adding creaminess.

• Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness with trace minerals like manganese and zinc. It adds sweetness and helps bind the mixture into cohesive bars.

• Pure vanilla extract: Adds flavor while containing small amounts of antioxidants. It rounds out and elevates the flavor profile.

Possible substitutions and add-ins

This energy bar recipe is versatile, as there are some easy substitutions and many other add-in possibilities:

• Nuts: It calls for 1 cups of nuts, so you can use whatever mixture you want. You can even include pistachios. Just make sure to chop them up before tossing into the mixture.

• Protein powder: Rather than collagen powder, you can also go with whey protein to increase the protein content even more. Try Ancient Nutrition’s Whey Protein Vanilla.

• Dried fruit: Rather than dried cranberries, you can go with raisins or dried cranberries.

• Chocolate flavor: At present, this bar doesn’t have any chocolate but it can easily accommodate mini dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.

• Seeds: Rather than pumpkin seeds, you can also go with sunflower seeds or chia seeds.

• Nut butter: Rather than almond butter, you can use peanut, cashew or sunflower butter.

• Natural sweetener: Rather than maple syrup, you can instead use honey. Try a raw honey for the most nutrients.

How to make an energy bar

In the bowl of a food processor, add the almonds or pecans along with the walnuts or cashews and pulse until finely ground, stopping before the mixture turns into a paste — you’re looking for a crumbly, flour-like texture that will help form the base of the bars. Add the old-fashioned oats, Multi Collagen Protein, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds and ground cinnamon, then pulse in short one-second bursts a few times, just until everything is evenly combined.

Next, add the almond butter, maple syrup and pure vanilla extract. Process the mixture until it becomes sticky and cohesive, pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed between your fingers — if it feels too dry, you can add a small drizzle of maple syrup or a bit more almond butter.

Transfer the mixture into an 8-by-8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased for easy removal. Using a spatula or your hands, firmly press the mixture into an even, compact layer, making sure the corners are well packed to help the bars hold their shape.

Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or until the mixture is firm and set. Once chilled, remove from the pan and use a sharp knife to slice into bars or squares.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. These bars are perfect for a quick snack, pre-workout fuel, or a convenient, nutrient-dense treat on the go.

Frequently asked questions

How long do no-bake energy bars last?

They typically last up to 1 week in the fridge or 2–3 months in the freezer when stored in an airtight container.

Do I have to refrigerate them?

Yes. Refrigeration helps the bars firm up and hold their shape, especially since there’s no baking involved.

Can I make these without a food processor?

You can, but it’s easier with one; otherwise, finely chop the nuts by hand and mix thoroughly for each step, such as with a wooden spoon in a big mixing bowl.

Are these bars healthy?

They’re made with whole-food ingredients, offering protein, healthy fats and fiber for a more balanced snack. Compared to commercial energy bars, they’re also much lower in sugar and overall carbohydrates.

Can I make them nut-free?

Yes. Swap nuts and almond butter for seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin) and seed butter.

Why aren’t my bars sticking together?

They may be too dry — try adding more nut butter or a bit of maple syrup to improve binding.

Are these good for pre- or post-workout?

Yes. They provide quick energy and sustained fuel, making them great for both.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely. Feel free to swap in different nuts, seeds or dried fruits based on your preference. See above.

Other healthy bars to make

• Breakfast bars

• Almond butter oatmeal bars

• Collagen protein bars

• Chocolate peanut butter bars