What are the ingredients in LÄRABAR bakes?
LÄRABAR has long been known for its simple, whole-food approach to snacks. While the classic LÄRABARs are famous for their fruit and nut base, the 'Bakes' line introduces a new texture and flavor profile through a list of equally wholesome ingredients. The exact formulation varies by flavor, but the core ingredients provide a glimpse into why they are a popular, family-friendly choice.
The Common Base Ingredients
Most LÄRABAR Bakes are built on a similar foundation, providing a chewy, baked consistency that holds the bar together. This differs significantly from the soft, pressed texture of their original bars.
- Buckwheat Flour: Unlike traditional wheat flour, buckwheat flour is naturally gluten-free and adds a wholesome, earthy flavor. It forms the main structural component of the bar.
- Sweeteners: Honey or cane sugar provides the primary sweetness in LÄRABAR Bakes. The brand prides itself on avoiding artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup in its kids' line, which includes the bakes.
- Fats: Coconut oil is a common addition, contributing moisture and a rich flavor to the baked bars.
- Seeds: Chia seeds are frequently used, adding a dose of fiber and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while also helping with the bar's overall texture.
- Binder: A small amount of water is included to help mix the ingredients before baking.
- Flavoring: Sea salt and spices like cinnamon are used to enhance the overall taste profile.
Flavor-Specific Ingredients
Beyond the common base, each flavor of LÄRABAR Bakes includes a few signature ingredients to achieve its distinctive taste. The Chocolate Chip Cookie flavor, for instance, adds semi-sweet chocolate chips, while the Cinnamon Swirl flavor features molasses and extra cinnamon.
Here is a list of some common flavor components:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add a classic, indulgent flavor. The chocolate is typically vegan, though made on shared equipment that processes dairy.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Molasses and additional cinnamon are used to create the warm, spiced flavor of this bar.
- Other Flavors: While specific 'Bakes' flavors may change, they typically incorporate other whole-food items like dried fruits, nuts, or cocoa powder for variety.
Comparison Table: LÄRABAR Bakes vs. Original LÄRABAR
To better understand what sets the Bakes apart, let's compare the ingredients and manufacturing process to the original LÄRABARs.
| Feature | LÄRABAR Bakes | Original LÄRABAR |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Buckwheat flour, honey/cane sugar, seeds, coconut oil, and water. | Unsweetened fruits (dates), nuts, and spices. |
| Preparation Method | Baked to create a chewy, cookie-like texture. | Cold-pressed, without heat, to create a softer, dense texture. |
| Sweeteners | Relies on honey or cane sugar for sweetness. | Relies solely on the natural sweetness of fruit, primarily dates. |
| Sweetness Level | Generally tastes more like a traditional baked treat due to the added sugar. | Often described as naturally sweet, with dates providing the primary sugar source. |
| Target Audience | Marketed towards kids and families who prefer a cookie-like texture. | Appeals to a broader audience, particularly those seeking a minimalist, whole-food energy bar. |
Why the Distinction Matters
The difference in ingredients and preparation between the Bakes and the original bars is crucial for consumer choice. For those seeking a snack that is entirely unprocessed and uses no added sweeteners, the original LÄRABAR is the clear winner. However, for those looking for a wholesome, gluten-free baked good alternative made with real ingredients and without artificial additives, the LÄRABAR Bakes are an excellent option.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in LÄRABAR bakes are refreshingly simple, and primarily consist of buckwheat flour, honey or cane sugar, coconut oil, and chia seeds. While they contain more ingredients and added sugar than the original fruit-and-nut LÄRABARs, they are still a wholesome, gluten-free option crafted without artificial sweeteners. This provides a delicious and convenient baked snack for families who want to feel good about what they eat. For more information on the brand's philosophy and product lines, you can visit their official website.
