Homemade No Bake Granola Bars are the perfect snack for busy days! I remember the first time I tried making these; I was searching for a quick and healthy treat for my kids after school. Store bought granola bars were always loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. But with this recipe, you know exactly what you’re putting into your body. Homemade No Bake Granola Bars are easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
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This recipe is inspired by my desire to create something wholesome and convenient. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a little moment of homemade goodness. Let’s dive into making these simple and satisfying bars together!
Why You Will Love This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
These Homemade No Bake Granola Bars are a lifesaver when you need a quick and healthy snack. They require minimal effort and are ready in minutes. No baking? Yes, please! Just mix, press, and chill: it couldn’t be easier.
The best part is the taste. They are perfectly sweet, slightly chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. They are also much more affordable than buying pre made granola bars.
I always make a big batch on Sunday evenings to have them ready for the week. These granola bars make the perfect lunchbox addition, post workout snack, or a quick afternoon pick me up. These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are equally perfect for a quick lunch!
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Ingredients Needed for This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
- Rolled Oats: 3 cups
- Shredded Coconut: 1 cup unsweetened
- Mixed Nuts: 1 cup (almonds, walnuts, pecans), chopped
- Seeds: 1/2 cup (such as chia, flax, or sunflower)
- Dried Fruit: 1 cup (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), chopped
- Honey: 1/2 cup
- Peanut Butter: 1/2 cup (creamy or chunky)
- Coconut Oil: 1/4 cup, melted
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
How to Make This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
- 1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- 2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate, microwave safe bowl, combine the honey, peanut butter, and melted coconut oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and salt.
- 3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. Make sure there are no dry patches and that all the oats are moistened.
- 4. Press into Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the granola mixture into the pan and press firmly and evenly using your hands or the back of a spatula. The tighter you pack the mixture, the better the bars will hold together.
- 5. Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bars to set completely.
- 6. Cut into Bars: Once the granola is firm, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut the granola into bars of your desired size. Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How to Serve This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
These Homemade No Bake Granola Bars are perfect as an on the go snack. Serve them chilled straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing treat.
Pair these with a glass of milk or yogurt for a complete breakfast. They also make a great addition to a trail mix for hiking or camping.
For a more decadent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars before chilling. You can also sprinkle on some extra nuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. These bars, plus some Homemade Fish Food are a wonderful and easy way to prepare.
How to Store This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
To store these Homemade No Bake Granola Bars, place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh.
These bars can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place them in a freezer safe bag or container. They can be stored up to 2 3 months in the freezer.
When ready to eat, remove the bars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 20 minutes.
Tips to Make This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
One of my favorite tips is to toast the oats and nuts before mixing. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the bars.
Feel free to experiment with different nut butters. Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives to peanut butter.
If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon or two of melted coconut oil or honey. If it’s too wet, add a bit more rolled oats.
Avoid overmixing the wet and dry ingredients, as this can make the bars tough. Just mix until everything is evenly coated.
Helpful Notes for This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
Make sure to use rolled oats and not instant oats for the best texture. Rolled oats provide a heartier and chewier bite.
Coconut oil helps bind the ingredients together and adds a subtle coconut flavor. You can substitute it with melted butter if you prefer.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less honey. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar as substitutes.
For a vegan version, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure that all other ingredients are also vegan friendly.
Variation of This Homemade No Bake Granola Bars Recipe
For a chocolatey twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. You can also add chocolate chips or chunks for extra indulgence.
If you love spices, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the mixture. These warm spices add a cozy and comforting flavor.
For a summery variation, add dried mango, pineapple, or papaya to the mix. These tropical fruits add a burst of freshness and sweetness. These crispy homemade baked chicken tenders-2 are another great summer food idea.
In the fall, you can add pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal treat.
Are homemade no bake granola bars healthy?
Yes, homemade no bake granola bars can be a healthy snack option because you control the ingredients. By using ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners, you can create a nutritious and satisfying treat.
How long do homemade no bake granola bars last?
Homemade no bake granola bars typically last for about 1-2 weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also store them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life even further.
Can I customize the ingredients in homemade no bake granola bars?
Absolutely! One of the best things about making no bake granola bars at home is that you can easily customize the ingredients to your liking. Feel free to add dried fruits, chocolate chips, different types of nuts, or any other ingredients you enjoy.
What kind of oats should I use for no bake granola bars?
Rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) are generally the best choice for no bake granola bars. They provide a good texture and bind well with the other ingredients. Avoid using instant oats, as they can make the bars too mushy.
