Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, transforms these wholesome breakfast bars into a stunning morning treat. These bars combine ancient grains with tropical flavors, creating a nutritious breakfast option that’s both Instagram-worthy and energizing. The natural pink hue from the dragon fruit makes these bars visually striking while providing valuable antioxidants and nutrients.
Why These Breakfast Bars Stand Out
These bars offer the perfect balance of chewy and crisp textures, featuring protein-rich quinoa flakes and heart-healthy macadamia nuts. The dragon fruit adds natural sweetness and a beautiful color, while coconut provides a tropical essence that transforms your morning routine into a mini vacation.
Prep Time and Yields
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling)
- Servings: 16 bars
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (120g) quinoa flakes
- ½ cup (40g) unsweetened coconut flakes
- ½ cup (65g) macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
- ¼ teaspoon (1.5g) fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 medium dragon fruit (about 1 cup/240g when pureed)
- ⅓ cup (80ml) raw honey
- ¼ cup (60ml) virgin coconut oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Extra coconut flakes
- Chopped macadamia nuts
- Dragon fruit pieces
Detailed Instructions
- Prepare Your Equipment
- Position rack in center of oven
- Preheat to 325°F (165°C)
- Line 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper
- Let paper overhang sides for easy removal
- Prepare Dragon Fruit
- Cut dragon fruit in half
- Scoop out flesh
- Puree until smooth in blender
- Strain if needed to remove seeds (optional)
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In large bowl, combine:
- Rolled oats
- Quinoa flakes
- Coconut flakes
- Chopped macadamia nuts
- Salt
- Combine Wet Ingredients
- In separate bowl, whisk:
- Dragon fruit puree
- Melted coconut oil
- Honey
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Create the Bar Mixture
- Pour wet ingredients into dry
- Fold gently until thoroughly combined
- Mixture should be evenly moistened
- Bake the Bars
- Transfer mixture to prepared pan
- Press firmly and evenly with spatula
- Sprinkle additional toppings if desired
- Bake 30 minutes until edges are lightly golden
- Center should feel set when gently pressed
- Cool and Cut
- Cool completely in pan (about 1 hour)
- Lift out using parchment paper
- Cut into 16 squares
- Store in airtight container
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap individually)
Nutritional Information
Per bar:
- Calories: 165
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 4g
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Choose ripe dragon fruit for best flavor and color
- For extra protein, add 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- Ensure eggs are room temperature for better binding
- Press mixture firmly into pan for bars that hold together
- Allow to cool completely before cutting for clean slices
- For varied texture, try toasting oats before mixing
Health Benefits
These bars pack numerous nutritional benefits:
- Dragon fruit: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C
- Quinoa flakes: Complete protein source
- Macadamia nuts: Healthy fats and minerals
- Oats: Sustained energy and fiber
- Coconut: Medium-chain triglycerides for energy
These Dragon Fruit-Coconut Breakfast Bars offer a perfect grab-and-go breakfast option that combines nutrition with tropical flavors. They’re ideal for busy mornings, post-workout refueling, or a healthy afternoon snack. The vibrant color and satisfying texture make them as appealing to the eyes as they are to the palate.
