Homemade Energy Bars

I think I have watched almost every cycling video the guys at the Global Cycling Network have posted regarding bike care and cycling skills. They are great presenters, pretty funny, and very knowledgable about all things cycling. I was excited to see a couple videos about cooking, since that is one of my areas of demonstration and the How to Make Energy Bars really caught my eye.

Of course, I had to make the recipe myself since it comes across as irresistible. One of the ingredients is Lyle's Golden Syrup (a thick British sweetener like corn syrup) and since that particular product is a throwback to my childhood, and I had a jar in the cupboard, I was good to go. Unfortunately, while the energy bars/granola bars are perfect for lanky pro cyclists after a long haul ride, they contain way too much sugar and calories for my diet-conscious self. I made a few modifications to lighten things up like reducing the oil, sugar, and quantity of raisins (by half) as well as removing the dates altogether (basically because I didn't have any on hand and also because they added a ton of Weight Watcher points to the recipe.)

I further reduced the 'points' by cutting the serving size in half, which is always an option when trying to lose or maintain weight but wanting to eat a calorie-rich food. The bars do contain beneficial oatmeal and nuts, as well as natural peanut butter and seeds, so they certainly have wholesome nutrients hidden within the sugary binding. The bars are delicious although even with my alterations I found them VERY sweet. If I make them again I will lessen the sugar and syrup quantities further. Luckily, my kids (who are grown, maintain healthy weights, and have no cavities!) loved the bars and are taking them to work in their lunches.

Obviously, during or after a serious workout (biking, running, or other intense activity), these bars supply a big blast of quick energy, as is their intention. They taste yummy, are very portable and easy to eat, and a treat to look forward to when the exercising is over. Watch the video to see how easy the Energy Bars are to prepare and if you're interested in cycling, check out the Global Cycling Network channel for many great instructional videos about the sport.