So, I’ve been making Larabars lately, so I got really excited when I had the opportunity to try the genuine Larabar and say what I think. First of all, I had to choose carefully when I was deciding which flavors to review, because a majority of the Larabar flavors are over 200 calories, which goes against what I preach about energy bars. But, after sifting through the various flavors (trying to focus on their newest flavors), I found a few that struck my fancy.
First, I just had to try their new Chocolate Chip Cherry Torte! I love the flavors of dark chocolate and cherries, so this one was definitely for me. I found that it had a very intense and more appealing flavor when I popped it into the microwave for 10-15 seconds! This warmed it up and started melting the chocolate, which mad me gobble it up, happily.
Next the Carrot Cake. This one was ok but I was surprised that it tasted more like pineapple than anything else. I didn’t grow up with pineapples in my carrot cake, so this isn’t traditional to me and I don’t really like it (though I love carrot cake and I love pineapple separately). This flavor just left me inspired to go home and try to tackle a homemade version that would match up with my ideas of carrot cake.
Then, I had the Blueberry Muffin. Honestly, this one was bland to me. I couldn’t tell that it was blueberry. I know from experience working with dried blueberries, however, that they definitely don’t have the same taste as fresh blueberries, so maybe this bar just isn’t going to taste like fresh berries (but maybe I’ll have a different conclusion after experimenting with making the bar myself).
And last but not least, Chocolate Chip Brownie. I loved this one. It had a heartier texture and definitely had a chocolate walnut brownie taste. I loved it warmed up and cold and can see myself eating this one again!
Overall, I love Larabar because they are real, honest food. Now, that doesn’t sound too grand, but when you read ingredient lists on energy bars and they are a mile long and full of things you don’t recognize, it is refreshing to eat a snack that is simply fruit and nuts. They are the reason I am inspired to make all natural Buddy Bars at home, and, when under 200 calories, they follow all the guidelines that I believe a food bar should. I can’t wait to scour their other flavors and try any others that are under 200 calories (Larabar, please crank out a coconut flavor for me that doesn’t make me feel guilty!).
Lindsay @ Delighted Momma says
LARA bars are my favorite! I always have a little pack of them in my car 🙂
Enter to win $150 worth of jewelry from JewelMint!
Mary says
I love making LaraBars!!! They are a Colorado commpany and they’d debut all of these bars/treats at local fairs, art festivals and such during the summer and so I’ve been a huge fan for ages and I had NO idea there was a blueberry flavor. Shame on me! My fav is the PBJ and the banana. 🙂
Melissa says
I love making them too Mary! My favorite homemade version is actually the PBJ. I haven’t tried their banana yet! I’m actually from CO so I love finding CO companies (I have every CO relative bring me Xing tea when they travel!).
Kim - Liv Life says
Nice review! While I’ve never made them my daughter eats them often during her dance rehearsals. Many of the other girls are always asking “Can I have one too?” Big hit!