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Homemade No Bake Granola Bars

Homemade No Bake Granola Bars

When you need a wholesome snack that’s quick, simple, and packed with nourishing ingredients, homemade no bake granola bars are one of the best options.
Prep Time 10 minutes
1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter or almond/cashew butter
  • ½ cup honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins (Choose 2–4)
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup chopped nuts almonds, pecans, walnuts
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp pumpkin or sunflower seeds
Optional Topping
  • Melted chocolate drizzle
  • Sprinkle of sea salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan (for melting nut butter and sweetener)
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 8×8 or 9×9 pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife for slicing

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare Your Pan
  1. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper on the sides for easy lifting later.
  2. Prepare Your Pan
Step 2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, salt, and any dry add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Step 3. Warm the Wet Ingredients
  1. In a saucepan over low heat, melt together peanut butter and honey until smooth and slightly runny. Stir in vanilla extract.
  2. Warm the Wet Ingredients
Step 4. Combine Wet and Dry
  1. Pour the warm mixture over the oats. Mix thoroughly until everything is well-coated and sticky. If using chocolate chips, let mixture cool slightly before adding them to prevent melting.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry
Step 5. Press into the Pan
  1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or the bottom of a glass to press firmly—this step is crucial for bars that hold their shape.
  2. Press into the Pan
Step 6. Chill to Set
  1. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or freeze for 20–30 minutes. Once firm, lift out using the parchment and slice into bars.
  2. Chill to Set
Step 7. Store and Enjoy
  1. Keep the bars refrigerated for best texture or freeze for long-term storage.
  2. Store and Enjoy