Granola Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade granola bars are healthier, fresher, and more affordable than most store-bought versions. You can control the sweetness, choose your favorite mix-ins, and avoid added preservatives or refined sugars. They’re great for meal prep, require no baking (optional depending on the recipe), and can be stored for days. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

rolled oats
honey or maple syrup
peanut butter or almond butter
chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
dried fruit (like cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates)
chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Directions

1. In a saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
2. In a large bowl, mix the oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and salt.
3. Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the chocolate chips if using.
5. Line a baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until firm.
7. Once set, lift out and slice into bars.
8. Store and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Makes about 10–12 granola bars.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds instead of nut butter and nuts.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top before chilling.
• Tropical Bars: Add shredded coconut and dried pineapple or mango.
• Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
• Crunchy Version: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes for a crispier texture.
• Spiced Bars: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
These bars are best eaten cold or at room temperature. No reheating is required.

FAQs

Do I have to bake these granola bars?

No, this is a no-bake recipe. You can bake them for a crunchier texture, but it’s optional.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, though the texture will be softer and slightly more crumbly.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce the honey or syrup, but keep enough to help bind the bars together.

Why are my granola bars falling apart?

Press the mixture very firmly into the pan and chill it long enough to set properly.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

No, fresh fruit adds moisture and may spoil quickly. Stick to dried fruits for longer shelf life.

Are these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats and check your other ingredients for gluten.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and vegan chocolate chips if adding.

How do I cut them neatly?

Use a sharp knife and cut while the bars are cold and firm. Wipe the knife between cuts if needed.

Can I pack these for school lunches?

Absolutely! They’re great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Conclusion

Granola bars are a nutritious, satisfying, and customizable snack that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re packing them for school, taking them on the go, or enjoying them as a healthy dessert, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and energy in every bite. Try your favorite mix-ins and enjoy a snack that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Granola Bars

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These homemade granola bars are chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit. They’re perfect for meal prep, school snacks, or a quick energy boost anytime.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 bars
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1/3 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins, chopped dates)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt peanut butter and honey together until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and salt.
3. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well coated.
4. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then gently fold in chocolate chips if using.
5. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until set.
7. Lift out of the pan, slice into bars, and enjoy!

Notes

• Press the mixture very firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together.
• Wrap individual bars in parchment paper or plastic wrap for grab-and-go snacks.
• For crunchier bars, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes before chilling.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 12 servings)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: undefined