Homemade No-Bake Granola Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade No-Bake Granola Bars are a perfect snack that’s quick, customizable, and packed with nutritious ingredients. They require no oven, making them incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, they are budget-friendly, giving you full control over the ingredients—no hidden sugars or preservatives like in store-bought bars. Whether you need a quick breakfast, lunchbox snack, or something to curb your mid-afternoon hunger, these bars are a great choice. You can make them your own by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)
• ⅓ cup honey (or maple syrup, or agave)
• ½ cup mix-ins (chocolate chips, dried fruit, seeds, or nuts)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt

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

Directions

1. Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the sides for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats and your choice of mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds.

3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup/agave) together, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the melted mixture over the oat mixture and stir well to combine.

5. Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to ensure it’s compact and even.

6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to cut.

7. Slice and Serve: Lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into 10-12 bars. Enjoy immediately or store for later!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
• Vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave, and ensure your chocolate chips and other add-ins are vegan.
• Nut-Free: Replace the nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini. You can also use seed-based add-ins like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for longer freshness.
• Freezing: Individually wrap bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I store them at room temperature?

Yes, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them.

How do I prevent the bars from falling apart?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

What are some great add-ins for these bars?

You can include chocolate chips, dried cranberries, raisins, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or coconut flakes.

Can I make these granola bars without nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute nut butter with seed-based alternatives like sunflower seed butter or tahini.

Are these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

How long will the bars stay fresh?

They stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature and up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup is a great substitute for honey, making this recipe vegan-friendly.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, dark chocolate chips or any type of chocolate chips can be added to your granola bars.

How can I make these granola bars lower in sugar?

You can reduce the amount of honey or syrup, or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

Can I make a bigger batch?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

Homemade no-bake granola bars are an easy, customizable, and healthy snack that’s great for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of nutritious bars to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack, these bars are a versatile solution that fits into any diet. Try them today and enjoy a delicious, homemade snack that’s as easy as it is tasty!